We are heartbroken to announce the sudden passing of Dawson James Albert Mackie, age 25, of Thunder Bay, Ontario, on August 30, 2026.
Dawson was born in Dryden, Ontario, on January 15, 2001, and was the treasured son of Mike and Shelley Mackie and a deeply loved brother of MacKenna and fur-brother Frankie. He will be forever loved and missed by his grandparents, Pearl Cran and Albert and Bev Mackie.
Dawson will also be missed by Uncle Jamie and Aunt Stephanie Cran; cousins Summer and Brody Cran; Aunt Shannon and Uncle Andy Smith; cousins Savannah (Jayce) Kuzemchuk and Dylan Smith; Uncle Abby (Thunder Bay Dad) and Aunt Ronda Mackie; and cousins Kaden (Emerald) and Kyle Mackie.
Dawson was very close with the Savage family, who will also feel his absence, especially his closest friend Max.
Dawson was predeceased by his grandfather, John Cran, and his great-grandparents.
Dawson grew up in Dryden and graduated from Dryden High School before moving to Thunder Bay to attend Confederation College, where he completed the Electronics Engineering Technician and Instrumentation Engineering Technician Programs. He enjoyed Thunder Bay and began his trades career with a plumbing/heating/HVAC company, completing his G3 Gas Technician certification.
While in Thunder Bay, Dawson continued to enjoy gaming, weight-lifting, and fitness, and developed a special passion for golf, where he could be seen on many Thunder Bay area golf courses with Kaden, Kyle, Uncle Abby and Max. Cars were also one of Dawson’s interests, and he loved his first car, an Acura TSX. He grew to love his latest car, a Nissan, but it could never take the place of the Acura! Dawson also loved music and collected various sound systems, even an electric guitar, with aspirations of teaching himself to play. He was often seen with headphones on, enjoying rap and rock music and humming his favourite songs.
Growing up, Dawson always wanted a pet, as he loved our first dog, Rocky the Pug. After Rocky’s passing, Dawson convinced the family to get quirky pets like hermit crabs and exotic fish because we took many family trips and couldn’t commit to another dog. He even researched and convinced us to get a hedgehog named Bubba. Mom and Dad finally broke down and got him a French Bulldog named Frankie in 2019. Frankie made numerous trips to visit Dawson in Thunder Bay.
Dawson was a man of few words, but anyone who knew him will remember his sense of humour, quiet kind heart, and compassion.
Cremation has taken place, and a private family ceremony will take place at a later date.
In place of flowers, you can donate to an animal charity of your choice in Dryden or in Thunder Bay.
When the sun sets on a beautiful life… the colours can remain far after.
Keep them in your stories, say their name, emulate their kindness and cherish their legacy.
We love you, Dawson … Until we meet again.
Condolences(7)-
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Bonnie says
September 15, 2026 at 3:36 pmWe are so very sorry for your loss. Please accept my heartfelt condolences. I can’t imagine how difficult this must be for you and your family. Thinking of all of you and wishing you strength and comfort during this incredibly difficult time.
Brian &Bonnie Hatch
Candi & Ron Fults says
September 15, 2026 at 5:55 pmSending strength to all. Dawson will forever have a place in our hearts.
We cry for the short life you lived, and for the long life you didn’t
Lynn Konkle says
September 15, 2026 at 6:11 pmSo sorry and sad to hear of your loss! A life cut too short! Sending our thoughts and prayers to all family and friends during this most difficult time! 🙏❤️❤️
Ian Dobson says
September 15, 2026 at 8:19 pmIt is difficult to think of words that would bring comfort at such a tragic time. Reading Dawson’s obituary made me realize what a kind gentle soul he must have been and the potential contributions he would have made to our community. I hope that he will be remembered for the joy he clearly gave to Mackenna, his family and all those who shared in his 25 years. Please know that your friends and colleagues in the Thunder Bay medical community offer our full support and sympathy in any way we can.
Linnea Humphrey says
September 15, 2026 at 9:28 pmDear Shelly and Mike. My sincere condolences on that loss of your wonderful son, Dawson. Thinking of you and your family and sending you love and strength. – Linnea
Liz Norman says
September 16, 2026 at 8:38 amOur deepest condolences to Shelley, Mike, MacKenna and the Cran and Mackie families. Thinking of you all and sending love, strength, and heartfelt sympathy during this incredibly difficult time. May your memories of Dawson bring you comfort in the days ahead. He will be missed by so many. ~ Liz, Gary & Jacob Norman
Jude McCafferty says
September 16, 2026 at 1:52 pmDear Mackie Family, I am truly saddened to hear of Dawson’s passing. I had the pleasure of teaching Dawson, in elementary grades, and again as a supply teacher at DHS. Dawson was an amiable young man who had time for others, and who was kind and respectful to everyone. I hope the love and support from family and friends help to comfort you during this difficult time. Sincere heartfelt condolences, Jude McCafferty