George "Eric" Dawson

Eric will be remembered as a respected and humble man whose quiet wisdom and positive attitude touched all who knew him. Articulate and well-read, he was a lifelong learner with a particular passion for reading, history, puzzles, and home brewing. Friends and family could always count on Eric to share an interesting fact or thoughtful insight. Grounded in his approach to life, he was often the calm voice of reason.

Born into a farming family in PEI, Eric spent his younger years surrounded by a large and close-knit extended family. His time in Cape Traverse remained among his fondest memories and shaped his deep appreciation for family, community, and the simple joys of life.

Eric completed his studies at the University of New Brunswick, earning a degree in Mechanical Engineering. Following graduation, he was fortunate to find his lifelong partner, Bonnie Boutilier." Together, they relocated to Port Hawkesbury, where they built a loving home, strong friendships, and lasting roots in the community. Like many in the area, Eric dedicated most of his professional life to the pulp mill. A dedicated swim dad, Eric spent countless hours driving his children — and anyone else who needed a ride — to swim meets across Atlantic Canada, while also generously volunteering his time with the Port Hawkesbury Thunderbolts swim team and Swim Nova Scotia. Eric was also an active member of St. Mark’s United Church in Port Hawkesbury for many years.

In his younger years, he embraced adventure through skydiving, scuba diving, swimming, and curling. He treasured camping and canoeing trips with his family, especially their annual visits to Kejimkujik. In retirement, Eric discovered a love for kayaking, enjoyed connecting with others during daily walks with the family dog, and looked forward to ski trips with family and friends — always aiming to improve both his technique and the number of runs he could fit into a day. Eric and Bonnie shared a passion for travel and were grateful for opportunities to travel locally, across Canada, and internationally together, while visiting family and friends along the way.

Eric’s love for family only deepened with the arrival of his five beloved grandchildren. Whether at hockey games, dance competitions, or swim meets, he could always be found cheering enthusiastically from the sidelines. He also delighted in simple family traditions, especially family dinners and taking his grandchildren out for ice cream.

"Eric is lovingly remembered by his wife, Bonnie; his children, Colin (Julie Dang), Cara (Mark Flinn), and Cristin (Garett Sibley); his sister, Beryl (Hal Cahoon); and his five cherished grandchildren, Ben, Hannah, Alana, Sturgill, and Sawyer. He was predeceased by his father, Clifford; his mother, Bertha; and his brother, Brian, and his mother and father in-law Clifford and Flora Boutilier."

A celebration of Eric’s life will be held in August 2026 in Halifax, Nova Scotia. Details will be announced.

The family extends heartfelt gratitude to all who have offered kindness, support, and friendship during this difficult time.

We welcome you to a share a memory of Eric in the link below.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Diabetes Canada, the Canadian Cancer Society or a charity of your choice.