Thomas Michael Dawson

1947 - 2021

Thomas Michael Dawson

Indianapolis - Thomas Michael Dawson (Mike), 73, passed away peacefully surrounded by family at his Indianapolis, IN, home on January 13, 2021.

Michael was born on July 1, 1947, in Indianapolis, IN to his parents Thomas and Betty Dawson.

The oldest of nine, he was a talented baseball player and was once scouted by the major leagues. As a young man, he was also a competitive football and basketball player and boxer. Athletics were his first true love, and competitive sports greatly influenced his personal and professional life. A "scrappy" and competitive businessman, he built a successful career as a manufacturers rep in sports apparel.

Michael was also a devoted husband and father, and a Vietnam veteran. He enlisted in the United States Marine Corps at the age of 19. He served two tours in Vietnam at Da Nang Air Force Base, picking up the dead and wounded from the battlefield. Michael came home from war and met the love of his life, Cindy (Householder) Dawson at a friend's party in 1969; It was love at first sight and a great love story that endured 51 years.

Above all, Michael was a family man; he was a fierce protector of his daughters and a favorite "Papaw" among his grandchildren. And even in the midst of his health battle, he continued to guide his family with fortitude, grace and humor.

Michael is survived by his wife Cindy and his three daughters Angela, Jennifer (Jason) and Emily (Chad). He is also survived by five grandchildren, Stella, Jackson, Levi, Viviene and Blake. He was preceded in death by his father, Thomas Bernard Dawson.

A private service will be held for the family. In lieu of flowers, please donate to: Axe ALS at stevensnation.com.