Obituary of Dawson Albert Girdwood
Dawson passed away peacefully surrounded by his wife, sons and grandchildren on Saturday February 28th,2026 at the age of 85. He was the loving husband of 65 years to Elizabeth “Betty” Marie (nee Thomas) and the cherished father of David (Anna), Scott (Tracey) and the late Mark. Dawson was the dear grandfather of James and Crystal. He will be lovingly remembered by his sister Marjorie and by many nieces, nephews, extended family and friends. Dawson was predeceased by his parents James and Annie Girdwood and by his Siblings Fred, Mordon, Anita, Nancy and Glen.
“Doc” was a lifelong outdoorsman. He introduced his family to the outdoors, particularly hunting and fishing in the family tradition. Dawson crisscrossed the country numerous times with Betty camping, fishing and exploring from Newfoundland to Alaska generating and sharing many cherished memories. Growing up in the family drug store instilled a strong work ethic in Dawson. He carried this forward to his careers in taxidermy, boat building, picture framing and trapping. Doc loved telling a good story to his family, friends, and people he met along the way.
He was an avid trapper and a trapping teacher and was a strong member of the Lanark District Trappers Council. Doc was very active in Ducks Unlimited, organizing dinners and framing prints for their auctions. He was a champion Fiddler and was also a teacher, organizer and judge of many competitions, including the Perth Fiddling and Step Dancing contest. Doc was a member of the Perth Fiddlers Club, and a member of Maple Sugar travelling across Canada.
Dawson’s family offer their special thanks to the doctors and nurses of the Ottawa Hospital Cancer Centre for all their care and compassion, as well as Dr. Ferrier and his wonderful staff.
As per his wishes cremation has taken place and there will not be a funeral or visitation. In his honour, memorial contributions to the Ottawa Hospital Cancer Centre would be appreciated. Arrangements are in the care of Blair & Son Funeral Home, Perth.
