Tribute

Thomas Harold Dawson, born in Florence, ON on August 10, 1912, passed away peacefully at his home in Parkview Manor in Midway, BC, on December 16, 2009.

Predeceased by his son Russell, and brothers Wallace , Jack and Ernest, Harold is survived by Esther his loving wife of 59 years and 4 daughters, Sheila (Fred) Courtney, Mary (Allan) Wills, Peggy (Don) Lindgren and Judy (Rick) Harpur, 10 grandchildren, 14 great-grandchildren, 1 sister Betty Griffith of St. Thomas, ON and many nieces and nephews in BC, AB and ON.

At the age of 21, Harold drove his friend’s family across Canada to Oliver and there he decided to stay. He found work in one of the local garages and in 1938 opened his own garage with a partner Harold. He joined the Seaforth Highlanders in June 1940 and then transferred to the 14th Calgary Tanks Division. Serving in World War II, training overseas in England and Scotland and then taking part in many campaigns in Europe, Italy and Sicily. Upon his discharge and return to Oliver he started working as head mechanic and school bus driver for the South Okanagan School district. He retired from that position in December 1974.

Harold was involved with the Oliver Soapbox derby races, helping organize and creating many race cars. Harold was the last charter member of the Oliver Elks Lodge and also an active and longtime member of the Oliver Kiwanis until their move to Midway in 2007.

His daughters have great memories of camping and fishing trips throughout BC and AB, plus 2 trips out to visit family in ON. At the age of 89 Harold had his last hunting trip with his son-in-law Rick and friends. It was that same year he gave up bowling after a long career as a league bowler.

Harold loved his family, especially family gatherings, for suppers, playing cards and singing. He was a quiet man with a profound sense of right and wrong, and a strong work ethic which he showed in all aspects of his life.

A heartfelt thank you to Dr. Fred Hamilton, all the nurses and staff of the Parkview Manor, the community care nurses and night time personal care attendants for their care and compassion shown to Harold during these last 4 months, his family is truly grateful.

A Celebration of Harold’s life will be held at the Midway Community Hall on December 28, 2009 at 1:30 p.m. Reception to follow. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Parkview Manor / Building Fund
Condolences may be directed to the family by visiting www.nunes-pottinger.com
Arrangements entrusted to Nunes-Pottinger Funeral Service & Crematorium, Oliver & Osoyoos, BC.