Obituary of Dawn Weston SHARPE

September 18, 1941 – Deeside, Quebec
June 13, 2021 – Calgary, Alberta

It is with deep sadness that we announce the passing of Dawn Sharpe, a generous and loving son, brother, husband, father, and friend. He died peacefully at home on Sunday, June 13, 2021 with his family at his side.

The son of a schoolteacher and train engineer, Dawn was born in Deeside, QC, and grew up in Tide Head, NB. He attended the University of New Brunswick (UNB), where he met his lifelong love, Susan. He graduated in 1964 with a degree in civil engineering and began a career in the oil and gas industry at Mobil Oil in Alberta. In the early 1970s, Dawn launched Ramier Resources, the first of a series of successful businesses, including Sharpe Engineering, Marlex Engineering, and Lancer Well Services. He valued his education and saw it as a gateway to his success. Having received a scholarship himself, he and Susan established a number of student scholarships at his alma mater. He also dedicated much time and energy to fundraising for the University in the Venture Campaign. His many accomplishments were recognized with an honorary doctorate from UNB. Dawn had many interests. His skill in the garden was recognized at an early age when his dahlia took first place at the local town fair. He later qualified as a Master Gardner and volunteered many hours gardening at Rosedale Hospice where he was well known for his tulips – planting over 2000 a year. Over the years, he also volunteered his time in support of the Kirby Centre, the Canadian Pony Club, and the Alberta Light Horse Association, of which he was a past President. Never still for long, when he wasn’t working around the property, Dawn enjoyed skiing hard in the Rockies, fishing in the Haida Gwaii, and keeping fit at the Glencoe. He ran several marathons, qualifying for Boston. He also loved the fine things in life, including wine, dining, collecting art, listening to music, and travelling. After retirement, he and Susan visited thirty-nine different countries on six continents, but every year returned to Anguilla in the Northern Caribbean, his favorite home away from home. 

Most important to Dawn was family, on whom he lavished time and attention. Remembered for his generosity and smile, he is survived by his wife of fifty-seven years, Susan, his son Dave and his wife Ally; his daughter Nina and her husband Chris; and his sister Sheila Clulow. 

A private family funeral has taken place and a memorial for family and friends will take place at a later date. Condolences, memories and photos can also be shared and viewed here. If friends so desire, memorial tributes can be made directly to UNB or the Rosedale Hospice, Calgary.

In living memory of Dawn Sharpe, a tree will be planted in the Ann & Sandy Cross Conservation Area by McInnis & Holloway Funeral Homes, Park Memorial, 5008 Elbow Drive SW, Calgary, AB T2S 2L5, Telephone: 403-243-8200.