Dawson was born in Roberts Arm and had a long and varied career in multiple occupations. He began as a primary teacher at The Roberts Arm Amalgamated school. He then became a lab technician with the Iron Ore Company of Canada in Quebec and then moved to Baie Verte as a lab technician with the asbestos company. He was also a union representative for the workers. After four years he trained with the company as a heavy duty mechanic. After 12 years in Baie Verte he moved back to Roberts Arm, NL. He then became the Economic Development Officer with the Green Bay Economic Development Association. After several years he went back to his career as a heavy duty mechanic with various companies throughout NL. He ended his career with the Provincial Department of Works, Services and Transportation, retiring in April 1998.

Dawson was an avid outdoorsman and loved to fish and hunt and spend time at the cabin with his grandchildren. His hobbies also included reading, scrabble, visiting friends and relatives and political discussions, both at the provincial and federal level with anyone interested. He leaves his friends and relatives with fond memories to last a lifetime.

Dawson is predeceased byhis parents William and Jane Anthony; brothers: Bruce Anthony, Harold Anthony, Gerald Anthony, Edward Anthony, Sandy Anthony, Robert Anthony, Eric Anthony, an infant brother; sister Mildred Parsons.

Heleaves to mourn wife Grace Anthony; son Paul (Laurita) Anthony; daughter Dawn (Todd) Wiseman; grandchildren Clinton Mitchell, Crystal Anthony, Joshua Pamak, Robyn Wiseman, Joey, Wiseman; great-granddaughter Naomi Adams; brothers Scott Anthony, Jack (Salome) Anthony, Elmer (Darlene) Anthony; sisters Bernice (Lorne) Strickland, Ruth (Fred) Colbourne; as well as many other family members and friends. He will be sadly missed by all who knew and loved him.

The Celebration of Life service took place Thursday, January 21, 2016 from Green Bay Funeral Home, Springdale, NL with Rev. William Matchem officiating. Inurnment was at the Centennial United Church Cemetery, Robert's Arm, NL. Urn-bearers were granddaughters Robyn Wiseman, Crystal Anthony. Funeral arrangements entrusted to Gail Hancock, Elaine M. Rideout, and Harry Oxford of Green Bay Funeral Home, Springdale, NL.