Dawson “Dude” Owen Goodpaster, 67, Marion, lost his battle to melanoma cancer at 3:30 a.m. on Sunday, February 28, 2016, at the VA Northern Indiana Health Care System, Marion. He was born in Marion, IN, to the late Dawson and Ernestine (Wise) Goodpaster. He married Denise Benedict in 1969, and she survives.
Dawson was a graduate of Marion High School, and he served in the U.S. Marines Corps from April 1968 to April 1972. He was employed at Materials Handling Equipment Corp. in Fort Wayne for 34 years and at Smith Consulting in Montpelier for 6 years.
Dawson was a long-standing member of the NSRA and a street rod enthusiast, having built many street rods and classic cars through the years. He was a mentor and friend to many car enthusiasts. He enjoyed camping and traveling and was extremely proud of his family.
In addition to his wife, Denise, he leaves behind daughters, Cyndi (Danny) Reneau, and Kimberly (Gabriel) Hehe; grandchildren, Mason Hehe, Gabrielle Hehe, Peyton Reneau, and Emily Reneau; brother, Stephen (Gail) Goodpaster; niece, Stacey (Terry) McDowell; great-niece and great-nephew, Haley and Trey McDowell; and his dogs, Ruby, Milo, and Billy.
Friends and family may call from 4-8 p.m. on Wednesday, March 2, 2016, at Needham-Storey-Wampner Funeral Service, Storey Chapel, 400 E. Main St., Gas City, IN.
Services for Dawson will be at 12:30 p.m. on Thursday, March 3, 2016, at the funeral home with Pastor Mick Simpkins officiating. Burial will follow at Marion National Cemetery.
Memorial contributions may be directed to the Marion-Grant County Humane Society, P.O. Box 1921, Marion, IN 46952.
Online condolences may be made at www.nswcares.com.