Craig W. Dawson

AUGUSTA – Craig W. Dawson, 63, of Brooklawn Avenue, died unexpectedly on March 20, 2021 at Maine Medical Center, Portland.

He was born in Burbank, Calif. on May 14, 1957, the son of Robert S. Dawson and Priscilla L. (Palmer) Dawson.

Craig was a graduate of Birmingham High School in Van Nuys, Calif. and went on to obtain a Bachelor of Science Degree at California Polytechnic State University, San Luis Obispo, Calif. and a master’s degree in statistics at the University of California, Santa Barbara.

He had several careers including computer programmer, math and vocational teacher, bicycle messenger, economic research analyst, hut master (for Maine Huts and Trails), and retail associate. Although he was devoted to each career, his passion was the outdoors.

Craig had his pilot’s license before he got his driver’s license and later tried his hand at piloting gliders. He also loved gardening, bird watching, hiking (especially up mountains like Mt. Whitney, California and Mt. Mount Katahdin, Maine), and bicycling (he rode in numerous centuries including the Dempsey Challenge). Craig moved to Maine from the central coast of California to be “nearer to winter’’ as he would often tell those who asked him “why?” Upon moving to this beautiful state, he immediately took up kayaking (it wasn’t winter yet) then cross-country skiing and, a few years later, downhill skiing. Craig loved nature: trees, flowers (or snow), birds and, especially, views.

As much as he loved the outdoors, he loved it even more when sharing the experience with his wife and the dear friends he made throughout his life’s journey who joined him in his adventures and included him in theirs.

He was predeceased by his parents; and a brother, Robert Dawson.

Surviving is his wife of 40 years, Maureen S. Dawson of Augusta; two sisters, Nancy Steinbock of Templeton, Calif. and Susan Baranowski of San Diego, two brothers, James Dawson of Oak Park, Calif. and Raymond Dawson of Van Nuys, Calilf.; six nieces and nephews; and many cousins.

There are no planned public visiting hours. A graveside service will be held at a later date. Arrangements have been entrusted to Plummer Funeral Home, 16 Pleasant St., Augusta. Condolences, stories and photos may be shared at http://www.plummerfh.com.


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