Patrick Dawson could often be seen walking or bicycling around town, and his support for the Glen Innes Magpies rugby league team was legendary. In fact football was his number one passion in life, and his keen footy tipping reflected that.

Patrick Kirk Dawson was born in Glen Innes on August 16, 1951 to Ron and Emily Dawson, although he lost his mother at a young age. He was raised by Ron’s second wife Vida, and he and big brother John and little sister Lee were soon joined by more siblings Tad, Joe, Wendy and Kay.

Patrick was special from birth and was spoiled and cossetted by his loving family. After completing his schooling at St Joseph’s and a short stay in Wollongong he spent his entire working life with Glen Industries.

Patrick loved running, and was proud of the trophies he earned for his efforts. One of his proudest achievements, however, was carrying the Olympic Torch for part of its journey through Glen Innes on its way to the Sydney Games in 2000.

Over the decades he cemented his place as an icon around town, and certainly at Magpies’ matches, going to all the games. He was always very competitive in the Examiner’s footy tipping competition, but could be guaranteed to always go for the Canberra Raiders, regardless of whom they were playing.

Outside of the Magpies, the Canberra Raiders were his favourite team and they received his emphatic support. He always grabbed any opportunity to catch a Raiders game when visiting his brother John and his family in Canberra.

Football and family were Patrick’s life. He was the family historian, keeping track of all the relationships in the large extended family and knowing everyone’s birthday, and not shy about issuing reminders about upcoming events.

Patrick had his own home on the family property up in Blue Hills Rd until recently, when poor health meant a relocation to Roseneath Aged Care Facility several months ago. While there he continued a special friendship with fellow resident Kerry Wilcocks, who was one of a number of treasured friends, many of whom were his colleagues at Glen Industries.

John said Patrick enjoyed immensely his few months at Roseneath, but his time there was all too short. A sudden deterioration in his health led to his hospitalisation last Monday evening, and he passed away – surrounded by family – on Wednesday evening.

A service will be held for Patrick today at 2pm in the Remembrance Room at the Glen Innes and District Services Club, followed by a private cremation.