About Our Founder.
JOHN WARREN DAWSON
John Warren Dawson was born on October 21, 1939 in Dodge City, Kansas to schoolteachers Adrian and Kathlyn Dawson. An only child, his parents and grandparents lavished him with affection, praise and attention, always snapping photos of their cheerful and lively little boy at play. His grandfather, pharmacist Warren Dennis, was fond of commenting about his pride and joy, “My Johnny can run faster and jump higher than any little boy anywhere!” Growing up in Wichita and Topeka, John had an idyllic Midwestern upbringing. He collected baseball cards, wrote letters to Santa asking for a cowboy outfit and played with his dog, Chubby. Early on, his parents and grandparents instilled in him a true “Protestant work ethic’; John gained an appreciation for hard work and pursuing goals with drive and determination. His energy, idealism and infectious enthusiasm characterized his youth as the consummate American boy of the 1950’s.
John Warren Dawson was born on October 21, 1939 in Dodge City, Kansas to schoolteachers Adrian and Kathlyn Dawson. An only child, his parents and grandparents lavished him with affection, praise and attention, always snapping photos of their cheerful and lively little boy at play. His grandfather, pharmacist Warren Dennis, was fond of commenting about his pride and joy, “My Johnny can run faster and jump higher than any little boy anywhere!” Growing up in Wichita and Topeka, John had an idyllic Midwestern upbringing. He collected baseball cards, wrote letters to Santa asking for a cowboy outfit and played with his dog, Chubby. Early on, his parents and grandparents instilled in him a true “Protestant work ethic’; John gained an appreciation for hard work and pursuing goals with drive and determination. His energy, idealism and infectious enthusiasm characterized his youth as the consummate American boy of the 1950’s.
HE TRULY BELIEVED THE ADAGE:
“Whatever the mind can conceive and believe,
the mind can achieve.”
At Topeka High School, John was very active and personable, playing in the band and demonstrating early leadership qualities. He traveled to Boy’s State as a Kansas delegate, and was elected to national office. He hit his stride in the drama department under the tutelage of extraordinary teacher and lifelong friend Martha Herrick. Performing in numerous stage productions from musicals to the most serious Tennessee Williams dramas showcased his extraordinary talent and stage presence. Topeka High left a permanent impression on John, and he remained committed to his alma mater. After graduating in 1957, he attended every reunion, maintaining deep friendships with many high school pals. In honor of Miss Herrick, who inspired him so much, John established a scholarship fund for students pursuing the performing arts. His contributions earned him a reputation as a “Topeka High Treasure”.
Enrolling in college at the University of Denver, John enjoyed the social life of a member of Beta Theta Pi fraternity and learned about play direction and production as a theater major. . This time in his life was one of dabbling in a number of different job pursuits and developing diverse business talents. He spun records as a DJ at a Denver country music station and waited tables at one of the city’s swankiest restaurants. Always interested in travel and aviation, he started a small charter travel company. His jobs as a waiter and tour guide, along with his experience directing theater, created the perfect mix of flair and skill that would make him a legend in the hospitality business.
The 1960’s and early 70’s were a time of great growth as John moved with his young family from Denver to Colorado Springs. John began working real estate sales. He was instrumental in the transformation of a sleepy small town into a well-planned, desirable city. Later, he branched out into apartment and housing development. Committed to creating an affordable family living experience, his development efforts built and improved many neighborhoods. With a growing reputation as a homebuilder and community developer, John rose to the forefront of the field and provided valuable leadership, becoming president of the city’s local National Association of Home Builders. He established many more lifelong relationships in home building and banking that lasted throughout his life.
Seizing an opportunity to expand his business interests, John moved his family to Phoenix in 1974. Beginning by building apartment complexes, he branched out into what would become his true calling: hospitality. He and partners worked to construct and manage the Sheraton Greenway Inn; then in 1975 he purchased the Sheraton Scottsdale Inn and Villas. With this venture, John began to build his legacy as the Valley of the Sun’s consummate host. He would be perfectly suited for this with his welcoming nature, charisma and eye for detail. He quickly acquired a depth of knowledge about the hotel industry, and the resort won numerous awards for excellence. In his true visionary fashion, John saw an opportunity to make Phoenix a hub for the sports industry. As a member of the Fiesta Bowl Committee, he helped establish that college contest as a major bowl game in college football. The Scottsdale Plaza Resort has hosted Fiesta Bowl teams and fans for 32 years. Expanded in 1985 to 404 rooms on 40 acres in beautiful Paradise Valley, the resort remains a leader in incentive and meeting travel. A true jewel in the desert, guests from around the world flock to the warmth and beauty of Arizona and the characteristic hospitality of the resort. John was an inspiring boss who believed in people, even when they didn’t believe in themselves. He took many people under his wing and helped them realize their professional dreams. His employees were truly family, and many have worked for his company for upwards of 30 years and beyond.
When it came to family time, John embraced his role as Dad and Grandpa with characteristic gusto. Known as ‘Mr. Arranger’, he planned activities for his children and grandchildren to enjoy every holiday and every summer. Especially at his ‘happy place’, his summer home in Bigfork, Montana, he carefully crafted memories and special times at the local theater, hosting cookouts and spending hours boating on beautiful Flathead Lake. John opened his home in Montana to family and friends often, inviting summer pals from the Eagle Bend Country Club and locals for barbeque and karaoke, sipping an IPA from the Flathead Lake Brewery. When he wasn’t hosting his family, he was supporting them. He clapped and cheered at all his grandchildren’s activities, especially arts and sports.
With his rakish good looks, his witty charm and sweet dance moves, John loved and was loved by many women. But he found his match when he married wife La, his ‘little yellow butterfly’ who stood by him and cared for him with unmatched devotion until the end of his life. Every time she entered a room, his face lit up with joy. They loved dancing and travel. Later in John’s life, they spent their days together talking, holding hands and listening to jazz standards, crooning along with their song, Ol’ Blue Eyes’ “Just In Time.” Always the life of the party, John loved time with friends and family, good food and drink, and hitting the dance floor when he heard a Sinatra tune. Though his presence will be greatly missed, we who loved him have countless happy memories of special times with him. His legacy of hard work, loyalty, love and laughter remains forever with all who knew him.
When it came to family time, John embraced his role as Dad and Grandpa with characteristic gusto. Known as ‘Mr. Arranger’, he planned activities for his children and grandchildren to enjoy every holiday and every summer. Especially at his ‘happy place’, his summer home in Bigfork, Montana, he carefully crafted memories and special times at the local theater, hosting cookouts and spending hours boating on beautiful Flathead Lake. John opened his home in Montana to family and friends often, inviting summer pals from the Eagle Bend Country Club and locals for barbeque and karaoke and sipping an IPA from the Flathead Lake Brewery. Always the life of the party, John loved time with friends and family, good food and drink, and hitting the dance floor when he heard a Sinatra tune. Though his presence will be greatly missed, we who loved him have countless happy memories of special times with him. His legacy of hard work, loyalty, love and laughter remains forever with all who knew him.
When it came to family time, John embraced his role as Dad and Grandpa with characteristic gusto. Known as ‘Mr. Arranger’, he planned activities for his children and grandchildren to enjoy every holiday and every summer. Especially at his ‘happy place’, his summer home in Bigfork, Montana, he carefully crafted memories and special times at the local theater, hosting cookouts and spending hours boating on beautiful Flathead Lake. John opened his home in Montana to family and friends often, inviting summer pals from the Eagle Bend Country Club and locals for barbeque and karaoke, sipping an IPA from the Flathead Lake Brewery. When he wasn’t hosting his family, he was supporting them. He clapped and cheered at all his grandchildren’s activities, especially arts and sports.
With his rakish good looks, his witty charm and sweet dance moves, John loved and was loved by many women. But he found his match when he married wife La, his ‘little yellow butterfly’ who stood by him and cared for him with unmatched devotion until the end of his life. Every time she entered a room, his face lit up with joy. They loved dancing and travel. Later in John’s life, they spent their days together talking, holding hands and listening to jazz standards, crooning along with their song, Ol’ Blue Eyes’ “Just In Time.” Always the life of the party, John loved time with friends and family, good food and drink, and hitting the dance floor when he heard a Sinatra tune. Though his presence will be greatly missed, we who loved him have countless happy memories of special times with him. His legacy of hard work, loyalty, love and laughter remains forever with all who knew him.
Throughout his lifetime, John always enjoyed sharing in his success with supporting those causes he was passionate about. Those causes included protecting our freedoms, free-market principles, youth development and sports, theatre and the arts and medical initiatives. John has changed the lives of countless individuals throughout his lifetime. Who knew a little boy from Kansas would leave such a positive impact in this world. We are honored to carry on his legacy.