It is with profound sadness that we, the family of Dawn Marie MacDermid, advise of her passing on November 5th, 2023.

Dawn, right down to her last breath, was a fighter; on many occasions she defied overwhelming odds. Some say she was a cat with nine lives, but we believe she had the lives of a litter of cats.

Dawn was a loyal friend with a big heart who had a remarkable gift for bringing people together to her cozy home where she would showcase her exceptional cooking talents, including her famous tuna casserole. Her home, which was always charmingly decorated, was filled with photos of her children and grandchildren, whom she profoundly cherished and took great pride in; she regularly bragged about their character and accomplishments.

Dawn was known for her sarcastic, dry, and often unfiltered sense of humour. She was an incredible conversationalist who would enjoy long discussions at her kitchen table with a backdrop of curated classic rock hits including Blue Rodeo, Janis Joplin and The Tragically Hip. Above all, Dawn was a fiercely loving protector of her family and friends. With her passing, she takes a little piece of our hearts. She will be dearly missed by all who knew her, leaving behind a legacy of laughter, love, and togetherness.

Dawn was the daughter of the late June (Snow) MacDermid and late Clarence MacDermid (Wanda). She is survived by her daughter, Jamie Lee MacDermid-Hill (Mark), and sons, Bruce Brew (Julie), Jonathan Gagnon (Emily), Marc-Andre Gagnon (Savannah), and Jakob MacDermid (aka his Nana). She is also survived by her grand-children Anika Potschka, Bauer and Tayja Gagnon, and Easton and Ella Brew and step-grandchildren Kieran and Ashton Hill.

Also left behind to grieve, are her brothers - Charles, Kenny (Claire), Clarence/Sharky (Marcie), Sandy (Kelly) and Todd (Heidi) MacDermid and Bryan Bezanson (Karen), sisters - Janet Bragg (David), Kim Campbell (David), Evelyn MacDermid (Dave), Ellen Hickey (Dan), Michelle Phinney Goetz (Joe), and Tammy Williams, as well as countless nieces and nephews who loved their Auntie Dawn. She also leaves behind special friends, Brenda White and Buddy (Gordon) Smith.

Aside from her parents, Dawn was predeceased by her brother, Dean MacDermid, and sister, Tracy Ann Rudderham Brake.

Dawn has been cremated and her celebration of life will take place in July 2024, in Westmount, Cape Breton - details to be confirmed.
In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to Feed Nova Scotia. Dawn volunteered with many food banks over the span of her life.
https://www.feednovascotia.ca/donate/donate-money/in-memory-donation