Stephen F. Dawson

Stephen F. Dawson, 71, resident of Kihei, HI, on the island of Maui, passed away on Sunday, April 28, 2024. He was born March 26, 1953 in Bloomington, IL, son of Robert Francis Dawson and Doris JoAnn (Kuhn) Johnson.

Stephen graduated from Norway High School, Norway, MI and Western Michigan University. In March of 2014 he married Edward (Eddie) Fischer in Wailea, HI. They spent 37 years together.

He is survived by three sisters, Julia (Merlin) Calkins of Kingsford, MI, Barbara Brault of Myrtle Beach, SC, Dana (Mike) Mounce of Ellsworth, IL; three brothers, Kenneth Dawson of Kingsford, MI, Timothy Dawson of Ellsworth, IL, Glen (Lori) Dawson of Normal, IL; 7 nephews; 5 nieces and several great nephews and nieces.

He was preceded in death by his father, Robert; his mother, JoAnn; his spouse, Edward; his niece Jennifer J. Arenas and his great niece Haili Ann Dawson.

Stephen was an avid reader, having read more than 200 books last year alone, and also loved his beach walks on the many beautiful beaches of Maui (especially, the Kamaole beaches in Kihei), where he averaged 35-50 miles per week. He took incredible photos, capturing bountiful sunsets filled with amazing colors, never forgetting the beauty found in the afterglow.

Stephen had retired after 32 years with the Social Security Administration. He developed a number of treasured friendships and we were told he was thought of as the glue that held them together through the years. Stephen often spoke of all the friendships he gained on his life’s journey, sharing how blessed he was by those who touched his life. He lived a life full of compassion and generosity.

Stephen fulfilled his dream of moving to Hawaii in 2020 and was grateful for that time. He loved sharing his dream and opened his home to friends and family. He immersed himself in the culture of his new home and developed new friendships in his paradise.

We would like to thank all those who brought light to Stephen’s life. Stephen was a blessing to all who knew him and he will be missed beyond words.

Stephen was surrounded with love and compassion in his last days. We wish to thank Hospice Maui Hale for the dedicated care they provided Stephen and the compassion they showed his loved ones.

Donations can be made to Hospice Maui Hale, 400 Mahalani St., Wailuku, HI 96793.