06/27/2026
Don, where do I even begin?
"Family isn't always blood. It's the people in your life who want you in theirs. The ones who accept you for who you are, who would do anything to see you smile, and who love you no matter what."
That's exactly what you became to me—family.
I am thankful for every conversation, every ride, every lesson, and every moment we shared. I've been searching for the right words, but the truth is, I don't think they exist. No words could ever fully capture what you meant to me.
Don Dawson was kind, passionate, and one hell of a horseman. I learned more in his hilly, off-center backyard ring than I did from many professional trainers. His quick wit always kept me humble. And when you earned his praise, you knew you had truly earned it.
He was incredibly generous to me. He entrusted me with Dawson, then Lady, and later encouraged my dream of breeding, helping me create my own Dawson-bred horse, Bruce. He taught me so much—not just about Arabians, bloodlines, and selecting the right sire, but about horsemanship, sportsmanship, and carrying yourself with quiet confidence in and out of the show ring.
Over the years, Don became like a grandfather to me. I looked forward to our conversations, whether they lasted hours or were just a quick catch-up. He was always one of the first people I wanted to call with exciting news. He was genuinely proud of how far I'd come and never stopped cheering me on. Even at 96 years old, he could rattle off Scottsdale champions and old-world bloodlines without missing a beat.
Don left an incredible mark on my life, and I will carry his lessons with me forever. I am so grateful our paths crossed.
Until we meet again... I hope you're riding Dawson again. Give him a kiss for me. ❤️
https://www.stanlyfuneralhome.com/obituaries/donald-dawson-10
