The world has lost a wonderful, gifted and giving person in Dawn’s passing.

I will think of her most as a true friend to my Mom and Dad - from the carefree and happy times of my earliest recollections with them heading out to the NAC and dinner parties together and stories of the great social gatherings she frequently hosted - to the tough (but precious) times of tremendous care and emotional support she provided my parents in their health challenges.

And I was always astounded at how she did that while keeping up a (seemingly more than) full time job at the Heart Institute. She was a devoted and tireless wonderful friend and support to so many - putting in unfathomable miles driving to and from places to do that over so many years!

She was recognized by the Governor General for her efforts, but I know that in her mind her greatest accomplishment by far was the remarkable family she (together with her beloved Wilf) had raised. She was incredibly and justifiably proud of her children and grandchildren and loved to related their stories and accomplishments in our visits.

Dawn was an amazing social host. I recall my parents marvelling at the terrific parties she hosted - making it seem effortless. I was so fortunate to benefit from that gift in relatively recent years as she continued to hosted our group every year for Christmas at the Rockliffe Residence (pictured here). She was a true giver and a wonderful friend.

My deepest sympathies to the Blain family for your loss