Peacefully at Queensway Long Term Care, Hensall on Tuesday, January 25, 2022, of Usborne Township at the age of 86. Beloved husband of Beatrice (Siemon) Dawson for over 60 years. Loving father of the late Larry (2019) and Melissa Dawson, and Brent and Sharen Dawson. Proud grandpa of Jamie, Brendan, Lindsay; Kristen and Kris, Jenna, and Chad. Dear brother-in-law of Jim McBride, Elsie Beuerman, Vicki Siemon, and Keith and Pauline Siemon. Fondly remembered by many nieces and nephews. Predeceased by his sister Eleanor and brother-in-law Cleave Brophy, sister, Ruth McBride, sister-in-law, Jean Mastin, and brothers-in-law, Ron Beuerman, and Bill Siemon.
Murray’s love of farming started the day of his birth on the home farm in Usborne Township. Together, he and Beatrice raised a beautiful family, instilling their hardworking qualities. Off the farm, Murray could be found travelling, curling, or enjoying being along the river or lake, trying to catch the odd fish. Murray’s dedication to the farming community was shown in his 20 + years with South Huron Food Grains Committee.
Visitation will be held at Haskett Funeral Home, 370 William Street, EXETER on Friday afternoon from 2 – 4 PM. Due to Provincial COVID-19 restrictions, each person must RSVP for the visitation. Please click “Register Now” below, to register.
A private family funeral service will be held on Saturday, January 29th at 11 AM with Rev. Louise von Massow officiating. Interment Exeter Cemetery.
Though the service is private, the family invites you to join with them from the comfort of your own home. Stream the service live or at your convenience by visiting www.facebook.com/haskettfh.
Donations to Canadian Foodgrains Bank – South Huron Growing Project or the charity of your choice would be appreciated by the family. 
We are always willing to go where called upon but this image shows a visual of the communities that our included in our initial transportation fee. We offer a 40km radius from any of our 5 locations (Arva (London), Exeter, Lucan, Seaforth, and Zurich). Any mileage beyond the included 40km will be charged a rate of $2.50/km (one way travel only).
Flora MacKellar & Brian Deller
We were sorry to learn of Murray’s death. Murray & Bea were our neighbours in Grand Bend, and warmly welcomed us into the community. We had many wonderful times together, before they returned to live in Exeter. We will miss Murray’s boisterous laugh, his story telling and his joy for life
Sandra Norris
I was so sorry to hear about Murray’s passing. I remember the Dawson family well as a teacher at Usborne Central. Murray and Beatrice were always very supportive parents at our school. Brent and family, my condolences.
Henry Reinders
On behalf of Canadian Foodgrains Bank, please accept our condolences on Murray’s passing. While I did not know Murray personally, we appreciate the 20+ years he worked to support our efforts of feeding hungry people around the world through the South Huron growing project. Thanks for thinking of others, even at this difficult time for you. May God give you peace and may your memories bring comfort to everyone in your family.
Henry Reinders – Ontario Regional Representative, Canadian Foodgrains Bank
Sam and Julie Regier
Bea and family.Sorry for your loss.I got to know Murray and his family through his son Larry.Larry was a great friend of mine.With farming and curling we had a lot in common.The two of them can now catch up things.We will miss them always.
David Bell
My deepest sympathy to Bea and the Dawson clan. Wonderful, wonderful memories at the Dawson farm (even the stone picking) and at the cottage.
From the whole Bell clan
John & Arlene Berendsen
Sorry to hear of your loss…Thinking of all of you at this time …. John & Arlene Berendsen
Gordon Mackay
I met Murray through the Grand Bend Mens Probus Club.
Murray had a great smile and was very personable.
I always looked forward to field trips around the countryside with Murray scouting out possible locations or activities for our club. It was always interesting for this city boy.
My condolences to Bea and the Murray family.
Kevin Parsons
To the Dawson Family,
Our condolences. Lots of history and memories with the Dawson Family including minor hockey, snowmobiling and rock picking.
Sincerely,
The Parsons Family,
Marlene, Gerry, Randy, Wayne and Kevin
Mark Heimrich
Bea, Brent & Sharen, Melissa & families;
Our sincere condolences in the loss of your husband, Father and Grandfather, Murray. My Mother, Marilyn Heimrich, also sends her sympathy. Mom very much enjoyed the friendship she developed with both Murray & Bea during their time at Maplewoods in Zurich.
Mark (& Julie) Heimrich & Marilyn Heimrich
Susan Moore
Thinking of you all as you grieve and share precious memories of your dad and grandpa at this time. Murray was always kind and caring, genuinely wanting to know how things were going for you every time we met! Dave and Murray always enjoyed their conversations together and he especially appreciated the visit when he was sick!
James and Helen Weston
Our sincere condolences to Murray’s family, we had many memories of him when I worked
at Dawson Counter Tops.
Kathy Hayter
Bea and family my thoughts and prayers are with you all at this time of the passing of Murray. I remember many stories and laughs at curling and .Murray always willing to give you some pointers
Scott Bogart
Beatrice & Family,
Offering deepest sympathies during this difficult time.
The Bogart’s
Scott, Lynda, Luke & Heath
Greg and Cheryl Becker
Dawson family
So sorry to hear of Murray’s passing. Thinking of you at this difficult time.
joanne mcintosh
Beatrice and Family,
We are so sorry to hear about Murray. I have great memories of him- always with a smile on his face.He will be missed by many.
Our sincere sympathy, Don and Joanne McIntosh
Larry & Donna Shapton
We want to offer our deepest sympathies to Bea and family… Most Sincerely, Larry & Donna Shapton
Amber Cooper
Dawson Family,
My deepest condolences on the passing of Murray . It was always so nice to have the pleasure of doing his hair at the salon, lots of good conversations had! My thoughts are with you all during this difficult time.
Janet & John Bilcke
Beatrice, Brent, Sharon & family
Please accept our deepest condolences on the passing of Murray. Always enjoyed our chats w him. Great neighbors! Goodbyes are never easy.
RIP Murray ♥️
Paul & Beth Anstett
Dear Bea & family,
Our sincere condolences on your painful loss of Murray. We have many fond memories of our curling days at the Exeter Curling Club and as a Lion in the Exeter Lions Club. Murray was a kind & funny soul. May he rest in peace.
Paul & Beth Anstett & family
Jim and Sharon O'Toole
Our sincere condolences to the whole Dawson family. It was always a treat to meet up with Murray and have a chat or to listen to a story or hear a new joke. He was a great farmer and we had many meetings at the curling club and at farm meeting. All good memories.
Jim and Sharon O’Toole
Bob & Sharon Pavkeje and family
Sending our sympathy to Murray’s family. Our thoughts are with you.
Murton Brock
Our sincere condolences on the passing of Murray ,for all of the Dawson family .Murray was a great man of the community, involved in many things and will be missed by all.
Murton &Nancy Brock
Norm & Barb Whiting
Howard and Yvonne Hendrick
Deepest condolences to Brent, Sharon and family in the passing of Murray. Cherish all your memories of happy times.
Sincerely, Howard and Yvonne
Mike Bedard
Sorry to hear of Murray’s passing.
Jim Chapman
Bea, Brent, Sharon, Melissa and families:
My sincere sympathy ! You and the community will miss him.
I remember the good times at the curling club and just leaning on the tractor tire
passing the time of day !
Bill & Louise Pincombe
Bea and family
Our sincere sympathy to all of Murray’s family. Murray always had a great smile for everyone and a very positive outlook on life. Bill curled with Murray and of course as farmers had lots to talk about. Hold on to all the happy memories that were made in the many years he was with you.
Tammi Yeoman
Condolences to Murrays family I had the pleasure of knowing Murray at the home working with him in his Physio treatment. I enjoyed the laughs we had and all his stories he Adventured threw his life and also the love he had for Bea. He will be missed RIP ❤
Beth Cooper
My deepest sympathy to Murray’s family.
My thoughts are with you at this sad time.
Beth Cooper
D. Shute & T. Kary
Our sincere condolences to the entire Dawson family. There is a lifetime of treasured memories in the photographs (and some faces I have not seen in many years). May Murray’s family and friends always find some comfort in those fond memories. The themes of family, farming, friends and community certainly shine through. Dan
Joyce Maas
Beatrice, Brent & Family,
Our deepest condolences on the loss of Murray., he was a great guy. Our thoughts and prayers are with you all at this sad time.
Joyce & Frank Maas
Patti McBride
Our deepest sympathies to the Dawson”s, in the passing of Murray.
Uncle Murray always loved to tease me when I was a kid, looked forward to spending time out east on the Dawson farm with my cousins,Aunt Bea and Uncle Murrayon summer vacation, many cherished memories. Sending our love and thoughts, Jim & Patti McBride
Carol Windsor
Condolences to the entire Dawson family
So very sorry to hear of Murray’s passing. I always enjoyed his stories and that wonderful smile when he came into the dealership. Hold tight to the memories and the many life lessons he shared along his way.
Bill,Pam and Brodyn Reid
Brent,Sharon and Family,
So very sorry for your loss,thinking of you all..
Bill,Pam and Brody xo
Don and Janis Richardson
Sending our deepest condolences to the Dawson family in the loss of Murray.
MaryJane Taylor
My Sympathy to the Dawson Families…
Caring thoughts are with you in your
loss of Murray…..
May fond memories be a comfort to you
in your time of sorrow ……
Marilyn Taylor
Kristen and Kris
Sending my condolence on the passing of your Grandfather.
Marilyn Taylor
Kristen and Kris
So sorry to hear of your Grandfather’s passing. May happy memories help you through this difficult time.
Marg Deichert
Bea and family,
So sorry to hear about Murray. What a kind and gentle man. Many discussions over the years at the kitchen table at my parents home when my dad (Claire Deichert) and Murray traveled to Huron County Council together and then lots of celebrations in later years. Hugs and prayers to all.
Marg Deichert
Berne and Doris McKinley
Beatrice and Family: Our thoughts are with you and your family at this time! Berne & Doris McKinley
Keith Murray
Murray was great guy! Our condolences to Beatrice and the entire family.
Sandra Newton
I was saddened to hear of Murray’s passing. I extend my sympathy to the entire Dawson family. May the countless memories you share of Murray help you through this difficult time.
Sandra Newton
Erich & Cheryl Freiter
Cheryl & I are truly saddened by the loss of your Dad,
Wishing you our sincerest condolences and prayers in this time of grieving.
Fran Ritchie
My thoughts and prays are with you Beaty. Fran and family
Anne & Ted Kernick
We extend our sincere sympathy to the Dawson family in the loss of Murray.
Thinking of you all.
Ron and Dianne Ducharme
Brent and family
Sorry to hear of your Dads passing
Shirley Kerslake
Sending my deepest sympathy to Murray’s family.
Anne Gallant (Delbridge)
Condolences to the entire family. May your fond memories help you through the days ahead. Murray will be missed by all but especially Bea.
Carolyn and Gerald Johns
Thinking of the Dawson family as they gather together to celebrate the many memories of Murray.
He will be remembered by many.
Sylvia O’Brien
Our condolences Melissa and family.
Tom and Bev Prout
Brent and Family
Our sincere condolences. Murray was a great supporter of agriculture, Usborne Township, and the South Huron Foodgrains Project. Murray and my dad spent a lot of time on council looking after Usborne Township, and at the Curling Club relaxing and having fun.
John & Diane Wilds
Our deepest condolences to Beatrice and family.
We have fond memories of a Cruising Hawaii with them some years ago.
Andy and Pam Megens
To the Dawson Family
Our sincere condolences on the passing of Murray. Have fond memories of Murray as a neighbour, Curling Club partner, and canning crop grower. Our thoughts and prayers are with you. RIP Murray.
Rick & Marilyn Vandenbussche
Our condolences to the Dawson family on Murray’s passing. He shared many stories and jokes with the choir at Thames Road Elimville! We had lots of laughs. Our thoughts are with you all.
Wanda Reynolds
To the Dawson Family
Our thoughts are with you at this time of sorrow.
Bob & Wanda Reynolds
Darlene Lightfoot
Brent, Sharen and family. So sorry for the loss of your dad and grandpa. Your in our thoughts and prayers
Darlene, Amy and Tim
Mark Cronyn
Beatrice, Brent, Sharon, Melissa and families.
So sorry to hear of Murray’s passing. You are in our thoughts and prayers at this sad time.
Cherish all your wonderful memories.
Mark & Judy
Sue and Jim Roth
Aunt Bea, Brent, Sharen, Melissa and Families, Our deepest sympathy to you and your families. Our thoughts and prayers are with you. Murray will be sadly missed.
The Coates'
So sorry to hear about Murray’s passing. Please accept out condolences
Cindy, Brad, Jaylene and Delaney
Nancy Alexander
Sending my heartfelt condolences to Beatrice, Brent, and the entire Dawson family. We grew up with the Dawson family as neighbours and friends. Murray and Dad had a special friendship – I remember Murray talking about the two of them being such great neighbours, always helping each other out and never a dollar changing hands. Murray will be missed by everyone who knew him. May you cherish all the memories, and always hold him close in your hearts.
Dennis and Kathy Martin
So sorry to hear of Murry’s passing. Our condolences go out to the Dawson Family. Back in the the day, Dennis enjoyed visiting their farm, and respected and appreciated the farm and community family that they were. A great legacy Murry has left behind. He will be remembered.
Cy & Eleanor Blommaert
Beatrice Bren & Sharon
So sorry to hear Murray has passed.
Always enjoyed our chats
Our deepest condolences.
Cy & Eleanor
Jeff Borland
Bea,Melissa,Brent, Sharen and Family.
Please accept our condolence with the passing of Murray.
He was a great support to the community and the local food grains.
The Borland Family
Dave Frayne and Cathy Cade
Sorry to learn of Murray’s passing. A long time resident of Usborne and Exeter and a supporter of the Exeter Curling Club.
Our condolences to his family and friends
Gary and Kathy simpson
Our deepest condolences to the Dawson family. Another Usbourne icon gone. I had the pleasure of many conversations and visits with Murray and Beatrice when they lived in Zurich and I was with onecare. Family, farming and friends were always the topics of discussions. R.I.P Murray.
Doug Procter
Murray really enjoyed the Grand Bend Men’s Probus Club where I first met him and we became friends. Even in recent months, he was trying to find a way to get to a meeting to see his friends. He will be missed. Condolences to his family.
Al Beattie
Bea, Brent and families, please accept our sincere condolences on the passing of your husband, father and grandfather. He was a gentle soul, a family man -an example for all of us to aspire to. It is our hope that your memories will inspire you as time goes on.
Al and Heather Beattie
Mac & Ann MacLean
Our sincere sympathy to Bea and all the family during this sad time of loss.
We have many good memories of stories told by Murray about farming and fishing !
Brian and Janet Keys
Aunt Bea, Brent, Sharen, Melissa and families…..keeping you all in our thoughts and prayers. Love and hugs. RIP Uncle Murray 🙏
Margaret Prout
My sincere condolences to all Murray’s family. Hope the memory of his love
will surround you now and bring you peace.
Don and Maja Dodds
Condolences to the Dawson Family. I attended Lumley school with Murray and both of us went to High School with Beatrice. Many good memories.
George & Helen Pratt
Bea, Brent, Sharon & Family
Our deepest sympathy to all on the passing of Murray.
He was a great guy & a great friend . It was a pleasure to
work with him in the Food Grains & remembering the good
times back in the hockey days. May you Rest In Peace Murray.
Lloyd and Carol Moore
Our deepest sympathy to Murray’s family. We have a lot of good hockey memories from the past.
Doug Jamieson
Bea and family. My sincere condolences on Murray’s passing. Many memories of good times at the curling club a long time ago. Together you were a great team in operating your farm, contributing to the Exeter Fall Fair and other community events. His smiles and stories will be missed by all
Liz Stephens
Bea & families My deepest condolences on your loss of this great man .He will be missed by all that knew him
John and Tracy Van Gerwen
We wish to express our sincere condolences to the Dawson family on Murray’s passing. We fondly remember Murray from our days in Exeter many years ago when Dad (Harry) had the farm machinery business. Murray bought one of the first Boa-Ski snowmobiles sold by Exeter Farm Equipment and we all enjoyed seeing him at the shop from time to time. We would often snowmobile out to the Dawson farm from our place on Thames Road. Dad and Murray were good friends and I know Dad really looked forward to those chats with Murray talking about farming, snowmobiling, and about life in general. Dad would always say “Now there’s a good guy!” Again, our condolences to all of you.
Sue Riley
My thoughts and prayers go to Murray’s family during this difficult time.
Don Lewis
Beatrice, Brent and Sharen and the rest of the Dawson family
Our sympathy to the Dawson family in their loss,
Cherish his memories and he will not be forgotten,
Thinking of you all at this sad and difficult time.
Don and Edith Lewis and family
George and Kathy Lee
Bea and all the Dawson Family. We are very sadden to hear of Murray’s passing. Our deepest sympathy to you and to all of your family. May all of your wonderful happy memories stay close to your hearts and may it give you comfort and strength in the difficult days ahead. George and Kathy (Ferguson) Lee
Faye and Larry Skinner
Our deepest sympathy to Murray’s family.
I met Murray while Bea and him were living at Towerview in Exeter. We had lots of chats and laughs.
Cherish the wonderful memories you have of him!
Evelyn Vincent
To Murray’s family
Sincere sympathy in your great loss. Murray was a kind, hardworking man. He will be missed. I will miss his smiles and greetings at Queensway
Linda & Jerry Traquair
Sending sincere condolences to Bea and the entire family. Murray was a good man .
Doug and Patty Webber
Beatrice and family.
We are so sorry to hear about Murray’s passing.
He was a good guy and I can still remember a lot of fun times with him over the years at the curling club.
I know that all of you will have a lot of great memories as well.
As long as you have these to hold on to, Murray will always be with you.
Doug and Patty Webber
Cathy McClure
Condolences to the entire family. He will be missed.
Steve Johns
I’m very sorry for the loss of your father and friend to many , It’s never easy to say goodbye. My thoughts are with you at this difficult time.
Steve
Bonnie Larmer
Through the years we have had many family visits with Murray and Beatrice both here in the Peterborough area and in Exeter, Grand Bend and Hensall. We loved his tours of the beautiful farmland of which he was so proud. His devotion to Bea, family, church and community was something to be admired. He had a great sense of humour, contagious giggle and being “a true Dawson” he excelled at storytelling.!
RIP Murray and enjoy your heavenly reunion with Dad.
Ron and Bonnie xoxo
Craig & Andrea Alexander
To all of the Dawson Family
Our sincere condolences on the passing of Murray. He was a wonderful neighbour and family friend. We have many wonderful memories. Lean on each other as well as your friends during the difficult days ahead and may you find comfort in all of your treasured memories.
Craig, Andrea, Luke & Samantha
Bill Heather and Karen Dickins
Our deepest condolences to Murrays family cherish your memories.
Paul Ross
To Bea and your family.
It was through our church connections and involvement with the South Huron CFGB growing projects that I came to know and respect Murray. Although he spoke quietly, his words and counsel exerted a strong and positive influence on all of us who worked with him in planning and carrying out both growing projects and annual church services. To borrow from Bob Hope’s signature sign off; “Thanks for the memories.”
Brent caslick
My deepest sympathy to Murray’s family. I had the pleasure of working with Murray on several committees and have been friends for many years. Unfortunately I never had the opportunity to going fishing for curling with Murray, but I know from our conversations, these were two passions he enjoyed ,