Special Olympics Michigan Mourns the Loss of Howard “Bud” Dodson Jr.

The Special Olympics Michigan family is saddened by the passing of Howard “Bud” Dodson Jr. on Friday, April 23, 2010 at the age of 75. Bud died after a battle with bone cancer. A dedicated friend and volunteer, Bud became Area 24 Director (Manistee, Mason and Lake Counties) in 1999 after his retirement from Dupont Chemical in Montague. He loved Special Olympics Michigan and loved working with athletes. He coached a number of sports including; horseshoes, baseball, track and field, cycling, poly hockey, and aquatics. Bud was recognized as a strong willed coach who provided structure for his athletes, but at the same time, was compassionate. Bud’s athletes were always his number one concern and priority. Special Olympics Michigan Chief Program Officer Ann Guzdzial said, “Bud was a caring individual who really cared about his athletes. He always followed the rules and believed in his Athletes.”

The day after his death, Saturday, April 24, 2010, Bud posthumously received the Community Service Award of the Year at the annual Ludington and Scottville Area Chamber of Commerce dinner. Bud was an incredible contributor to Special Olympics Michigan and his community. We would like to thank Bud for his hard work and dedication to Special Olympics Michigan. He was an amazing person and an asset to our team. He will be missed dearly. He was a leader and lived life to the fullest. Our thoughts are with his family.

Posted: 2010-04-28