was born on August 3, 1993, in Lansing, MI, to his loving parents, Julie Baglien and Gary Dawson. He was a remarkable soul, whose light shone brightly and touched the lives of all who had the privilege of knowing him. Tragically, Eston's life was cut short on Tuesday, February 13, 2024, in an automobile accident in Jackson, MI. He was only 30 years old.
Eston was a gentle and compassionate man, with a heart full of kindness and love. From a young age, he showed a deep interest in the world around him, which led him to pursue his education in geography at MSU. Eston was a proud graduate of Springport High School and held an associate's degree from Jackson College. His thirst for knowledge and curiosity about different cultures and places were evident in his studies. While in school, Eston played football, ran cross country, and played euphonium in the marching band, serving as drum major his senior year. He was a big part of the Quiz Bowl/Quiz Busters team as well as a performer in his high school musicals.
Throughout his life, Eston was known for his strong work ethic and dedication to his community. He served as a sexton at St. Paul's Episcopal Church, where his warm smile and helpful nature made the church a welcoming and safe place. Eston also worked as a night custodian at Springport Public Schools while in college, where he took pride in maintaining a clean and safe environment for students and staff.
Beyond his professional achievements, Eston had a deep passion for music, being extremely talented at playing guitar, piano, and singing. He had an eclectic taste in music, finding solace and inspiration in various genres and especially loving the Beatles, Rush, Metallica, Led Zeppelin, Bob Dylan, and Avenged Sevenfold. Eston played lead guitar in a band for a few years with his brother Erik and best friends and he was a talented composer. Eston could often be found immersing himself in thought-provoking films or television. He loved playing hockey, most recently for the Trash Pandas in Chelsea. He was devoted to the Green Bay Packers and was part owner of the team. His enthusiasm for these hobbies was infectious, and he would often share his recommendations and insights with anyone willing to listen.
He also enjoyed his family’s cabin in the Upper Peninsula. He loved the solitude of uncrowded lakes and streams. He especially enjoyed fishing for pike and musky and jump-shooting for waterfowl. Perhaps his favorite pastime was working up a good sweat in the family sauna and then plunging into the icy pool in the Indian River cleared of logs by him and his Springport buddies.
Eston's memory will forever be cherished by those he leaves behind. In addition to his parents, he is survived by his beloved Alina Kilian, the woman he intended to spend his life with, who shared his dreams and aspirations. Eston's brothers, Evan, Ethan, and Erik Dawson-Baglien, had a special bond that only brothers can share. He was also deeply loved by his sisters-in-law, Rachael Dawson-Baglien, and Grace Dawson, as well as his nephew, Walter; his niece, Lilith; and best buddies Tommy Murphy, Keith Nebelung, and Nathan Saed. Numerous aunts, uncles, and cousins also played a big role in his life. Eston's family was his anchor, and the love they shared was a testament to the beautiful person he was.
A service to celebrate Eston's life will be held on Saturday, February 24 at 11:00 a.m. St. Paul's Episcopal Church, 309 S. Jackson St., Jackson, Michigan. A luncheon and visitation will follow in the church fellowship hall. Additional visitation time will be from 5:00 – 7:30 on Friday evening, February 23. Friends, family, and all those whose lives Eston touched are invited to join in bidding him farewell and finding solace in each other's company.
In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests that donations be made in Eston's memory to the Springport Area Foundation for Education, Springport Band or Sports Boosters, or the charity of one’s choice. These organizations were close to his heart, and he believed in their missions to uplift and empower others.
Eston Dawson-Baglien, your time with us may have been far too short, but the impact you made on the world will endure for eternity. Your light brightened the lives of everyone you knew. May your soul find eternal peace, and may your light continue to shine brightly in our hearts. You will be deeply missed and forever loved.
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