Lawrence O’Neil “Mike” Dodson, 85, of East Freedom, passed away Thursday at UPMC Altoona following an extended illness. He was born in East Freedom, son of the late Leo B. and Marie C. (Claar) Dodson.
On July 8, 1960, he married Dorothy M. (Clouse) Dodson, who survives in East Freedom.
Along with his wife of 61 years, he is survived by seven children: Christine Albright (Terry) of East Freedom, Michael Dodson (Melissa) of Frederick, Md., Roman Dodson (Elaine) of Loretto, Ronald Dodson of East Freedom, Andrea Helsel (Jeff Clapper) of Claysburg, Lora Zemrose (Walt) of Altoona and Loren Dodson of East Freedom; three siblings: Colleen “Honey” Ercole (Michael) of East Freedom, Barbara Leslie (Jerry) of Claysburg and Vincent Dodson (Joy) of Claysburg; nine grandchildren; four stepgrandchildren; four great-grandchildren; nine stepgreat-grandchildren; and three stepgreat-great-grandchildren. He is also survived by numerous nieces and nephews.
In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by six siblings: Regina “Jean” DeLozier, Marian “Mame” Blazevich, Loretta “Ret” Walter, Inez Beisinger, Raymond “Ray” Dodson and Conwell “Con” Dodson.
Mike was a 1954 graduate of Hollidaysburg High School and proudly served his country in the United States Army from 1955-58, earning his honorable discharge. Mike was also a proud member of the American Legion.
Mike retired from SKF Industries as an inspector after 32 years of service.
Mike enjoyed hunting, watching football, going to airshows and casinos, playing cards and the lottery, coin collecting, flea marketing and scrap metal/junk hauling. He also loved listening to his favorite band, “Felix and the Hurricanes.”
Friends will be received from 4 to 7 p.m. Wednesday, Nov. 3, 2021 at The Good Funeral Home Inc., Alto-Reste Park. A military service will follow at 7 p.m.
A Celebration of Life will be held in the spring of 2022.