With deep sadness we announce the passing of Elaine Dawson (nee Drage), who died after a brief illness on July 4, three weeks after her 94th birthday. She will be profoundly missed by her children Elizabeth (Alan), Chris (Andrea), and Karen. Elaine will be lovingly remembered by her grandchildren Alexandra, Isabella and Karis, and her step-grandchildren, Emma, Sophie and Lily.

The youngest child of Eva and Joshua Roy Drage, she was predeceased by her husband John and brother Eric. Born in Vancouver, Elaine lived among a myriad of friends in Kerrisdale where she attended Maple Grove Elementary School, Point Grey Junior High and graduated from Magee High School in 1947. During these years, Elaine spent wonderful summers at the family’s cottage in Hopkins Landing and visiting family on Gambier Island.

Elaine completed her Bachelor of Arts and Teacher Training (1951) at UBC, during which time she was a member of the Alpha Gamma Delta Sorority. Elaine taught English and Physical Education at King Edward High School until 1954 when she married John P. Dawson, a Lieutenant in the United States Navy.

After living briefly in Long Beach, California, Elaine and John relocated to northwestern Missouri, where they started their family. Together the family travelled each summer to Vancouver, before relocating permanently to West Vancouver in 1969.

Remembered for her positive spirit, lifelong curiosity and forward-thinking view, Elaine was devoted to her family and enjoyed sharing enriching experiences with them. Elaine and John explored B.C. and its coast, where he introduced her to salmon fishing. From skiing with her children, to games night, gardening and reading, Elaine was never happier than to have the house filled with her children and their friends. She will be deeply missed by her wide circle of lifelong friends with whom she enjoyed bridge club, the symphony and the opera. Throughout her life, Elaine travelled widely with family and friends, with some favourite destinations being Morocco, Turkey, and Australia.

A passionate educator, in 1975 Elaine joined the West Vancouver School Board as a Teacher’s Aide where she thrived on tutoring young people and marking English and History papers until 2003.

For many years, Elaine was a member of the University Women’s Club at Hycroft.

A Celebration of Life will be held in September.