MERI DAWES

Meri Elsa Dawes, an entrepreneur and artist, passed away in her sleep on Monday, December 6, 2021, at the age of 100. She was born on November 10, 1921, in Oulu, Finland to Walter and Elsa Merikallio.

She is survived by her children, Richard, David, Denis, Diana, Douglas, and Drew, and her many grandchildren.

Meri had two sisters, Tytti and Airi and a brother Poju. Her family moved to Calgary, Canada when she was 10 years old to get away from the war. She met the love of her life, Dick Dawes, at an ice cream stand. They were married and had their first child, Richard, when she was 19 years old. They owned a farm together and lived happily until Dick's passing. Meri then moved her children to America and settled in Florida, getting her American citizenship on June 14, 1957.

She worked multiple jobs to take care of her family from being a salesperson, secretary, dental assistant to finally opening her own interior design, flooring, and furniture business. She retired early and began to travel the world. By the time she was 75 years old, she had been to every continent except Antarctica. She was very well read and self-educated after high school. She was a life-long learner and avid crossword puzzle enthusiast. She was an artist and created paintings, sculptures, sewed her own clothes, made her own jewelry, made her own furniture and curtains.

Meri was very spiritual and taught classes on spirituality and religion for several years as well as being an ordained minister. She loved meeting new people and telling fascinating stories about her worldly travels. She has touched many lives in her 100 years on earth.

The Dawes family has entrusted Carlson Funeral Homes and Cremation Services, Brunswick with Meri's arrangements.