August 11, 1926 – June 25, 2025

Donna Alexander Dawson, beloved wife, dedicated mother, grandmother, great-grandmother, and great-great-grandmother gained her angel wings with her family at her side on June 25, 2025, at Grand River Care Center in Rifle, Colorado. Born in Saguache County, Colorado, on August 11, 1926, Donna lived a life full of love, warmth, and cherished family moments.
Donna spent her early years in the serene landscapes of the Saguache Valley before moving to East Elk Creek outside of New Castle, when she was six. She graduated from New Castle High School in May 1944, amid the tumultuous times of World War II and seeing her brothers off to war. After graduation, she worked at the Garfield County Library in New Castle, where her passion for reading and learning found an outlet. A testament to her lasting influence, a
hologram of young Donna is etched onto a window of the current library.
On January 25, 1948, Donna married the love of her life, Earl Dawson, at the Methodist Church in Glenwood Springs. Over the years, they built a wonderful life together, raising four beloved children: Della, Delbert, Gail, and Jonilyn. Settling into a welcoming home up Main Elk Creek, Donna created memories and traditions deeply rooted in family values, joyful gatherings, love
and of course food! No one could walk into her home, without Donna offering them something to eat. Donna managed the family home and doubled as a reliable bookkeeper for Earl’s timber contracting business. Her involvement in the community extended to multiple leadership positions, including serving as District President with the American Legion Auxiliary, as well as participating actively in Ladies Aid. Dedicated and precise, Donna served as an election judge for numerous years, and found camaraderie in the Women’s Book Club, warmly opening her home and heart for friends and neighbors. She had a love of gardening and flowers and completed a course in horticulture and floral arranging. Donna was a rock hound. Everywhere they traveled, they would always come back a few pounds heavier with more additions for her beautiful rock gardens!
Donna and Earl found joy in their golden years spending winters in Queen Valley, Arizona; however, the highlight of their life was building a cherished hand-built cabin affectionately known as “Dawson’s Paradise.” Nestled at the picturesque confluence of the South Fork of the White River and Lost Solar Creek, the cabin became a treasured gathering spot for family and friends.
Donna particularly loved sharing this haven filled with serenity and beauty with her grandchildren, crafting lasting memories. An exceptionally gifted horsewoman, Donna was happiest in nature, horseback riding, and expressing unconditional affection towards her pups and horses. She demonstrated legendary skill in cooking and baking, pouring affection into her beloved dishes for all who visited. Donna genuinely enjoyed good company and was always
prepared for spirited matches of cards or marbles or Chinese checkers, typically gaining joyful victories along with plenty of laughter. Her sense of humor, extremely quick wit, and welcoming smile remain dearly cherished memories among all who knew her.
Donna was preceded in death by her husband, parents, seven siblings, daughter Della, and grandson Eli. She will be lovingly remembered by her brother Bill Alexander, sister-in-law Ruth Jennings, son Del Dawson (Kandi), daughter Gail Coombs (Dale), and daughter Jonilyn Hall (Lanny). The family legacy of grandchildren Alan Porter (Joy), Paula Porter, Cheryl Snyder
(Trent), Micah Dawson (Lizz), Sophia Dawson, Joshua Hinman, Amanda Sirus (David), Leah Griffith (Casey), Cammon Hall (Jenn), Britt Hall (Alex), Tevia Hoalst (Shane); 27 great grandchildren, and 5 great-great grandchildren. She was blessed with several loving caregivers, especially niece Marsha McAllister.
Family and close friends of Donna celebrated the beautiful life she led on July 3rd, 2025.