Joseph Carl Dodson, age 80, of Nevada, Iowa, passed away on September 17, 2026, in his home peacefully and surrounded by his family.

Joe entered this world on August 22, 1946, in Kirksville, Missouri, to John and Bonnie Dodson. He grew up in Lancaster, Missouri and graduated from Lancaster High School in 1964. He is survived by one sister, Joy Beth (Jeff) Anderson. Following high school, Joe enlisted in the Air Force, where he served from 1966 to 1969 as a Morse Intercept Operator, stationed in Okinawa, Japan and Osan, South Korea, rising to the rank of Technical Sergeant.

He then found a career as a telephone lineman, working with General Telephone Electronics Corporation (GTE) for over 25 years and then Iowa Telecom as a supervisor until his retirement. Joe was especially proud of his family and took his title of patriarch very seriously. Everyone knew he was the “Alpha Male.” Joe was a master gardener, routinely creating an oasis in his backyard.

Some of his favorite times were to sit there, grill, watch the birds, and share time with his family and friends. He also enjoyed vacationing in Mud Hen Lake, Wisconsin, fishing, collecting, and Corvettes. His greatest enjoyment was talking about and spending time with his family. The recent additions of his great-grandchildren Samuel Kelso and Colton Joseph were a source of pride, strength, and deep adoration during his final years of life.

Joe is survived by his wife of 51 years Vicki (Kelso) Dodson; children Kendra (Dean) Dodson Breitsprecher and Joseph Kelso Dodson; grandchildren Kelso (Beth Shaffer) Breitsprecher, Josie (Emma) Shelton, Patrick Breitsprecher, Joseph Mendal Dodson, Gracie Dodson, Lucy Sharron Dodson; and great-grandchildren Sam and Colton Shelton.

Joe was preceded in death by his in-laws, L E and Mabel Kelso.

Those who knew and loved him will remember him for his kindness, humor, faith, and love of family. He will be deeply missed by everyone, especially his Snacktime family, with whom he enjoyed breakfast several times a week.

A visitation is scheduled from 5-7 Friday, October 2, at Central Presbyterian Church, in Nevada, Iowa. A Celebration of Life will be held Saturday, October 3, at 11:00 am at Central Presbyterian Church with Pastor John Molacek officiating.

Joe loved flowers. The family asks that whenever you are greeted by the beautiful fall colors, you think of him.

Rasmusson-Ryan Funeral Home in Nevada has been entrusted with caring for Joe and is handling arrangements. Condolences may be shared with the family online at www.rasmussonfh.com