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BORN
1978
DIED
2020
Michael Dawson Obituary
Michael Stephen Dawson, 41, died November 2, 2020 in Louisville, KY. Born December 1, 1978 in Rantoul, IL. Raised in Tempe, AZ, he graduated from McClintock HS in 1997, after which he enlisted in the Army achieving the rank of sergeant in the Airborne. He served 11 years including tours in Macedonia and Iraq. He became a chemical processor after returning to civilian life. Survived by parents Nancy (mother) and John Gwilliam, Stephen (father) and Nuria Dawson, son Luke, siblings James Dawson, Kelly (Gwilliam) Robles, Betsy (Gwilliam) Armstrong, Wiley Herman III, Amanda (Gwilliam) Phox and Laurel Gwilliam. Also cherished by a host of aunts, uncles, cousins, nieces, nephews, extended Norrid family members, and friends. Interment Queen of Heaven Cemetery, Mesa, AZ. December 5, 2020 @ 11am.
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Memories and Condolences
for Michael Dawson
Carolyn
February 26, 2021
I finally found you online...
I'm so sorry, Silver Fox.
Liz & Luke Dawson
December 1, 2020
Michael Stephen Dawson was born December 1, 1978 in Rantoul, IL. He was raised in Tempe, AZ. During his childhood, Mike grew to love being outside. He loved hiking and camping. Mike attended McClintock High School where he excelled in soccer, cross-country and pole vaulting.
After graduating from McClintock HS in 1997, Mike enlisted in the Army’s 1st Battalion, 30th Infantry group based in Fort Benning, Georgia from 1997-2001, completing a tour in Macedonia. Upon returning home, Mike performed law enforcement duties for Luke Air Force Base from 2003-2005 while serving in the U.S. Army National Guard. Mike renewed his Army contract as a member of the 2nd Battalion 5th Special Forces Group Airborne unit based in Ft. Campbell, KY. From 2005-2009, he completed a tour of duty in Iraq and achieved the rank of Sargent.
Mike served his country for ten years during which he received many achievement awards including: medals, ribbons, badges, coins, several soldier of the quarter awards and two honorable discharges. The medals he earned include: Army good conduct, National Defense, Global War on Terrorism service, Iraq campaign medal campaign star, and Armed forces reserve medal.
Ribbons earned: Army Service, Overseas Service
Badges earned: Parachutists Badge
Mike’s greatest reward in his life was becoming a father to Luke (Liz). Luke was Mike’s ultimate pride and joy and he loved him unconditionally. The two of them loved the outdoors and went on many hikes and adventures in the forest and local parks. They also enjoyed many bike rides together.
Mike’s favorite hobbies were fishing and kayaking. He had a love of nature especially the view of water against the backdrop of the mountains. Mike loved animals and had may pets in his life. As a boy he had a blue parakeet named Blue Bird. Later in life he enjoyed his first cat, Keebler, that he and Liz had together. Keebler and Mike would play hide and seek and tag each other. It was quite a sight to see.
Mike had a good sense of humor and loved to play pranks on friends and co-workers. He really enjoyed a good laugh. Mike was a good guy loved by many.
Barbara
November 28, 2020
Michael Stephen, we knew each other for a few sweet weeks 22 years ago in SW. I remember a lovable young man. RIP
I will always think of you with a smile on my face.
Barbara
November 28, 2020
Michael Stephen, we knew each other for a few sweet weeks 22 years ago in SW. I remember a lovable young man. RIP
I will always think of you with a smile on my face.
Sherri Berger
November 21, 2020
Mike was an amazing friend Phil and I just loved him. He will be missed so much
Heather
November 18, 2020
Mike-you were such a sweetheart and I am so glad I had the privilege of calling you my friend.
November 17, 2020
May the love of friends and family carry you through your grief.
Craig Rafferty
November 17, 2020
RIP Mike you will be missed and fondly remembered.
Laura Miller
November 17, 2020
Oh Michael, you were a joy to know! Loving your son was your main priority, and Luke will know you through the memories of all that knew you!! God Bless you !! Love you, Aunt Laura abs Uncle Dan
Ali Hall
November 17, 2020
All our love and prayers.
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