The Excelsior Standard, Oct. 2, 2026

Joseph Carl Dodson, age 80, of Nevada, Iowa, passed away peacefully Sept. 17, 2026, in his home, surrounded by his family. Joe entered this world on Aug. 22, 1946, in Kirksville to John and Bonnie Dodson. He is survived by one sister, Joy Beth (Jeff) Anderson. He grew up in Lancaster and graduated in 1964 from Lancaster High School. Following high school, Joe enlisted in the U.S. Air Force, serving 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 the General Telephone Electronics Corp. for more than 25 years and then with Iowa Telecom as a supervisor until his retirement.

Joe was especially proud of his family and took his title of patriarch 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, Wis.; 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.

In addition to his sister, Joe is survived by Vicki (Kelso) Dodson, his wife of 51 years; and children, Kendra (Dean) Dodson Breitsprecher and Joseph Kelso Dodson. He also is survived by his grandchildren, Kelso (Beth Shaffer) Breitsprecher, Josie (Emma) Shelton, Patrick Breitsprecher, Joseph Mendal Dodson, Gracie Dodson and Lucy Sharron Dodson; and great-grandchildren, the aforementioned 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 for 5-7 p.m. Friday, Oct. 2, at Central Presbyterian Church, in Nevada, Iowa. A celebration of life will be held at 11 a.m. Saturday, Oct. 3, 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 the arrangements. Condolences may be shared with the family at www.rasmussonfh.com.