John Leroy Dobson, 91, of Kingsley, died Wednesday, November 6, 2024, at Munson Medical Center in Traverse City.  He was born June 19, 1933, in Kingsley, the son of John and Pearl (Nelson) Dobson.

John owned and operated Dobson's Garage, in Kingsley, and earned a reputation as a fair, honest, and hard-working mechanic and tow truck driver.  He was a 50-year member of the Eagles Club in Traverse City, F.O.E. #383.  He enjoyed playing fast pitch and slow pitch softball and sponsored many softball teams over the years.  He also played golf and basketball, and he loved watching the Detroit Tigers.  He made sure to read the newspaper, mainly for the sports section and the obituaries.  John always loved antique cars, and he loved his small dogs.

John is survived by: his wife of 32 years, Ellen (Vanderley) Dobson of Kingsley; children, Mark (Brenda) Dobson of Mesick, Diane (Jeff) Hanna of Traverse City, and Joe Dobson of Kingsley; stepchildren, Chris Taylor of Buckley, David (Bonnie) Taylor of Lake Ann, Roger Davis of Honor, and Brian Davis of Sweden; numerous grandchildren, great-grandchildren, great-great-grandchildren, nieces, and nephews; and many dear friends and former customers in Kingsley.

John was preceded in death by: his parents; daughter, Laurie Babcock; grandson, Mikol Babcock; and siblings, Maxine, Yvonne, Evelyn, and Olive.

Memorial services will be conducted at 11:00 AM, Thursday, November 14, 2024, at Kingsley United Methodist Church, with Pastor Colleen Wierman officiating.

Memorial contributions may be made to The Rock of Kingsley, PO Box 207, Kingsley, Michigan  49649.

Beacon Cremation & Funeral Service, Covell-Kingsley Chapel, is in charge of arrangements.

www.beaconfh.com