The British-born TV host died on Saturday at Ronald Reagan UCLA Medical Center from complications due to esophageal cancer, his son Gary Dawson said, reported Ace Showbiz.
"It is with a very heavy heart that I inform you that my father passed away this evening from complications due to esophageal cancer. He was surrounded by his family. He was an amazing talent, a loving husband, a great dad, and a doting grandfather. He will be missed but always remembered," Gary said in a statement.
Singer Paula Abdul and actresses Marlee Matlin and Patty Duke offered their tributes to late actor and game show legend Dawson.
"I'm truly saddened by the news of Richard Dawson's passing. My sincere condolences to his family & friends. Such a great loss. I had the privilege of working with Richard Dawson on a movie I choreographed called Running Man with Arnold Schwarzenegger.... He'll be sorely missed," Abdul wrote on Twitter.
"Rip Richard Dawson, lot more laughs in heaven now with ur (your) presence. I am grateful for the laughs we had here. Love you," Duke posted.
Matlin, referring to the kisses Dawson gave his female contestants said, "Ah, the kissing quizmaster of Family Feud has passed away. Rip Richard Dawson. Every 'Survey Says...' was delivered with class."