Richard Dawson

Richard T. Dawson, Dick, of Middletown, CT and Venice, FL left us too soon on December 18, 2021. Dick was born to Frank and Agnes Dawson on April 15, 1944. He was the second of five siblings, a protective older brother to his sister Sandy, and the ring leader of all sibling mischief. The five remained close and celebrated the holidays together with large family gatherings. Dick and his brothers enjoyed golfing trips where they continued the pranks and shenanigans of their younger years. Dick and his wife, Paula, met in college and were married for 53 years. They raised their family of four in Middletown until 2013 when they said goodbye to New England winters and moved to Venice, FL. Their retirement years were busy traveling between FL, CT, and NH to spend time with family and friends. Together the two enjoyed almost 50 years of summer vacations with family on Lake Winnipesaukee, NH, their Happy Place. He is survived by his two children: Richard F. Dawson, and Rebecca Dawson Cinclair (Rick), and his four grandchildren: Addy, Dawson, Chloe and Weston. He leaves behind brothers Bob Dawson (Jean), Pete Dawson (Joanne), his sister Sandy Dawson Sheridan (Phil), sister-in-law Judy Dawson, and his many nieces and nephews. He is preceded in death by his parents, and brother, Joe. Dick spoke fondly of his time at Woodrow Wilson High School. He was an accomplished athlete throughout high school and college, basketball being his favorite team sport. After graduating from Drake College/Ft. Lauderdale University in 1968, Dick began his long and successful career in Labor Relations and Human Resources for North & Judd, and Eyelet Speciality. He retired from Cytec Industries as Director of Human Resources. Dick's negotiating skills are legendary ask any car salesperson in New England or Florida. Dick loved his hometown. He was an active member in his community, always willing to volunteer his time. He served as Commissioner on the Middletown Redevelopment Agency, and held positions on Middletown Parks & Recreation Commission, St. Pius X Youth Activities, and Northern Middlesex YMCA, to name a few. For fun he coached his son's Little League and Babe Ruth baseball, and CYO basketball teams. He was a devoted fan of UCONN’s men's and women's basketball, the Boston Red Sox and LA Lakers. In retirement Dick enjoyed the golfing life with his Connecticut and Florida buddies, especially the ""Duffers"". Most of all, Dick loved being silly ""Poppie"" and spoiling his grandchildren with limitless sugar. Dick was thoughtful and generous in every way possible. He was seldom serious and loved making people happy. He was an extremely hard worker, a loyal friend, and an excellent role model. He was often the favorite: favorite dad of his children's friends, favorite uncle, favorite boss, favorite coach. His generous spirit and kind, supportive nature touched everyone who knew him. Dick's absence will be felt by all, especially Hostess, Little Debbie and Dunkin Donuts. The light Dick Dawson brought to each of our lives is too bright to be extinguished, and the memories he leaves us with are too awesome to forget. Services will be held at a later date. In lieu of flowers, donations in Dick's memory may be made to Plantation Community Foundation, 500 Rockley Boulevard, Venice, FL 34293.