Michael Dawe was an ardent community member in Red Deer and Red Deer County who also held multiple roles including City Councillor and Historian. His sudden passing has had an irreparable effect on Red Deer as his multidimensional roles of public servant, historian, author, and community member have left an imprint in its history and residents.
Who was Michael Dawe?
Born March 7, 1956 in Red Deer, Michael Dawe was a fifth-generation resident who epitomized its spirit and history through his life and work. Following graduation from Red Deer College he pursued a bachelor’s degree in history and economics from the University of Alberta before serving as full-time archivist with the Red Deer and District Archives until 2017. Dawe’s deep connection to his roots could be seen through his serving as full-time archivist with them until 2017.
Dawe was well known for his commitment to public service. In 2017, he was elected city councillor of Red Deer. Additionally, Dawe participated in various boards and committees related to community development and historical preservation – founding member of Alberta Archives Society; trustee for David Thompson Health Authority and Red Deer Regional Hospital Boards; longstanding member of Red Deer East Rotary Club among many others.
Dawe’s contributions to Red Deer went far beyond his official roles. He was beloved family member, brother, uncle and friend whose warmth and jollity touched many lives. Furthermore, as an author and archivist he diligently documented Red Deer’s history while making sure its stories would live on for future generations.
What Happened to Michael Dawe?
Red Deer residents were deeply shaken to learn of Michael Dawe’s sudden and untimely passing on Christmas Eve 2023. Though details surrounding his demise remain hazy, his loss was keenly felt throughout Red Deer – not least among former mayors and colleagues who paid their respects as tributes flowed in from various corners. Tributes have come pouring in – showing just how highly Michael was thought of among community members and leaders.
Mayor Ken Johnston made note of Dawe’s love and contributions to Red Deer during his statement, while former mayor Morris Flewwelling highlighted Dawe’s dedication and passion as “stalwart son” of Red Deer. With Dawe gone, we will surely feel his loss deeply within our community.
How Did Michael Dawe Die?
Unfortunately, details surrounding Michael Dawe’s sudden and unexpected passing remain private. Though details regarding his cause of death have yet to be shared publicly, his legacy and impactful work in Red Deer will live on for generations.
Remembering Michael Dawe
Michael Dawe is remembered not only for his professional achievements but also for his warm, friendly, and outgoing personality. He truly cared for his community and always found time for a chat, showing keen interest in their lives – his ability to make everyone feel heard and valued one of his most remarkable traits.
Dawe’s dedication to Red Deer history was evident in everything he did. His skill as a historian made history accessible and engaging for everyone around him; his columns in local newspapers and authored books like “Red Deer: The Memorable City” serve as proof of this dedication to preservation.
Legacy Michael Dawe
Michael Dawe’s legacy in Red Deer is diverse. As an historian, he played an essential part in protecting and promoting Red Deer’s heritage; as an archivist and writer he created a vast repository of knowledge; while as an elected councillor his dedication to public service and community development were clear to see.
Dawe was widely honored for his contributions to education and veterans affairs, receiving multiple honors such as Alberta Citizen of the Year and Queen’s Jubilee Medals. Red Deer citizens recognized his impactful presence by electing him “Most Beloved Citizen” and Citizen of the Year respectively.
Red Deer City Hall flags have been lowered to half-mast to honor Michael Dawe’s contributions and celebrate his life, both of which he gave with passion and dedication to Red Deer. Michael Dawe will continue to inspire and shape Red Deer, which was his city of choice he loved so dearly; his family’s request that people spend quality time together during this holiday season in his memory perfectly represents who Michael Dawe was; community, family, and togetherness.