Hegnal or “Sonny” as he was affectionately known, was born on September 12, 1945 in Brownstown, St. Ann, Jamaica. Sonny was the son of Edith (Matts) and Solomon Dawson and the brother of five sisters. He is predeceased by his parents Edith and Solomon, as well as two sisters Madge (Cynthia) and Edith (Christy). He is survived by Evelyn (Rose), Elaine, & Gloria.

Raised in Jamaica, Sonny emigrated to Detroit where he studied to become an Accountant and a Book Keeper. After graduation, he moved to Toronto and eventually obtained his Real Estate license. Sonny enjoyed a fulfilling career in Accounting and Real Estate until he retired in 2010.

Sonny was the loving husband of Delores (Rowe), whom he married on May 10, 1975. After a fruitful 44 years of marriage, Sonny was the proud father of Cheryl and Aldith, and a loving grandfather to 4 grandchildren.

Sonny’s life revolved around his family, friends, and his love for God. He was a quiet soul, with a yearning for life and a passion for introducing people to Christ. Sonny was a dedicated member of the Apple Creek SDA Church and made numerous contributions to the growth and development of his church, including masterminding the first fundraising concert that contributed to the construction of the current Apple Creek SDA Church building.

Friends and family are invited to a viewing at the Elgin Mills Cemetery (1591 Elgin Mills Road East, Richmond Hill) on Monday, January 27, from 6:00 to 8:00pm. A Service of Remembrance will take place at Apple Creek Seventh-Day Adventist Church (700 Apple Creek Blvd, Markham) on Tuesday January 28th at 10:00am – starting with a 1 hour viewing opportunity.

In lieu of flowers, the family would greatly appreciate if donations were made to the Alzheimer’s Society of Ontario, in memory of Hegnal “Sonny” Dawson.