Frederic Alan Dobson

Frederic Alan Dobson

October 11, 1937 - October 31, 2026

Frederic Alan Dobson, 89, passed away on October 31, 2026. He was born on October 11, 1937, in Kiefer, Oklahoma, to John Wallace Dobson Jr. and Alva Enid (Raymer) Dobson.

A proud member of the Cherokee Nation, Fred cherished his Native American heritage, which came through his father's family. His connection to the Cherokee Nation, headquartered in Tahlequah, Oklahoma, remained an important part of his identity throughout his life.

Although born in Oklahoma, Fred was a Texan through and through. A larger-than-life character with a quick wit, a straight-talking manner, and an irrepressible sense of fun, he was, quite simply, a party waiting to happen. He had a way of making life more entertaining for everyone around him, and those fortunate enough to get to know him almost invariably came to love him. He was unapologetically himself, and that was a large part of his charm.

The greatest love of Fred's life was his wife, Patricia Ann (Harper) Dobson. Their remarkable love story began in childhood-Tricia even attended Fred's sixth birthday party. They became high school sweethearts and went on to build a life together that spanned nearly seven decades of marriage. Having celebrated their 69th wedding anniversary in July 2026, they shared a lifetime of love, family, adventure, and memories. Through all the chapters of his life, his devotion to Tricia remained a constant.

Fred was also a devoted father who loved his five children deeply and took enormous pride in each of them. He made sure they knew how much he loved them and how proud he was of the people they had become. He was never shy about telling others, either. He loved to brag about his children and grandchildren, celebrating their accomplishments and sharing their successes with anyone who would listen. His pride in his family was as genuine as it was boundless, and his children grew up knowing they had a father who believed in them wholeheartedly.

Fred began his professional career as a television repairman, eventually rising to lead the service department for Sears, Roebuck and Co. He later held a similar leadership position with RCA Corporation, building a successful career in an industry that was rapidly transforming American life.

But perhaps the happiest chapter of his working life came when he owned and operated Powell Park Marina on beautiful Lake Sam Rayburn in East Texas. More than a business, the marina became the center of family life and the setting for an extraordinary childhood for his five children. Growing up on the lake gave the family a lifetime of cherished memories. Those years at Powell Park Marina held a particularly special place in Fred's heart, and his children remember them with equal affection.

Water was always Fred's happy place. Whether on a lake, a river, or the open ocean, he was never more content than when he was on the water. An avid fisherman, he could work an entire day, spend time playing with his children, and still head out to fish all night. His passion for fishing was, in fact, one of the reasons he purchased Powell Park Marina. In later years, his love of freshwater fishing expanded to the open ocean, where he became an enthusiastic marlin and sailfish fisherman.

Perhaps one of his most enduring legacies is the love of the water he passed on to his children. All five grew up sharing his adventures on the water, and each carries that same deep connection today. Like their father, they feel happiest and most at home near lakes, rivers, and oceans. It is a gift that will remain with them for the rest of their lives.

Fred also had a special place in his heart for dogs. Among his most devoted companions was Dolly, a little long-haired Chihuahua whom he adored. Their bond was a testament to the affection he had for the animals who shared his life.

In the final chapter of his professional career, Fred served as owner and Chief Executive Officer of Lodging Services Incorporated (LSI), the company from which he ultimately retired. His career reflected his entrepreneurial spirit, leadership, and willingness to pursue new opportunities.

Fred is survived by his beloved wife of 69 years, Patricia Ann (Harper) Dobson; their five children, Sharon Dobson, Valari Staab, Kim Thriffiley, Michelle Chabolla, and Sean Dobson; eight grandchildren; seven great-grandchildren; and his faithful little companion, Dolly.

He was preceded in death by his parents, John Wallace Dobson Jr. and Alva Enid (Raymer) Dobson, and his brother, Wallace Owen Dobson.

It was Fred's wish that, when the time comes, his ashes and those of his beloved Tricia be scattered together in the ocean he loved so dearly. For a man who found such joy and freedom on the water, it is a fitting final resting place.

And perhaps that is where his children will always feel closest to him-on the water, with the sun overhead, the wind in their faces, and the knowledge that the love he gave them will be carried forward with every tide.