Calmore Sports Club is deeply upset to hear of the passing of former club Chairman and Life Vice-President, John ‘JJ’ Dawson, who has died this week, aged 88.
Councillor Dawson served as Chairman of Calmore Sports for one year in 2002, during a difficult period for the club and was an active member of the club for many years, supporting and assisting wherever he was required to do so, especially when it came to legal matters and dealing with the local council.
He was a hugely respected former Liberal Democrat councillor, who represented Totton on the town, district and county councils and, in his obituary in the Daily Echo today (Saturday 18 November), fellow Lib Dem councillor David Harrison said he had a “huge influence” on the local community.
Mr Harrison said, “John served as chairman of Totton & Eling Town Council for many years and all around the town you can see tangible evidence of some of the things he achieved. He is largely responsible for helping shape Totton during years of significant growth, especially during the 1980s and 1990s.”
Despite suffering with ill health in recent years, John still continued to attend the AGM, thanks to his son, and always supported club events when he was able to do so. His name was always a large part of the Christmas raffle.
Club President Steve Brandes led the tributes. “He always tried to be very helpful to the club when he was involved, in his position as local councillor and also supporter of the club, in conjunction with his good friend and club President at the time Peter Clark. He stepped in to act as Chairman of the club during a difficult time for the club and received the recognition of Vice President for his efforts and service”
Chairman Pete Lavelle also paid tribute to one of his predecessors. “The current committee are very sad to hear of the loss of former Chairman John Dawson. Even after his time in office, he was an avid supporter of the club, attending as many events as he could, despite his poor health in recent times.
“He will be very sadly missed by all at the club and we thank him for all he has done for Calmore Sports Club, in office and outside.”
Details of his funeral are yet to be announced but as soon as we hear any details, they will be publicised here.
