Peter T. Dawson, 71, of Hallowell died unexpectedly Wednesday, Dec. 19, 2012.

He was born in Newton, Mass., on May 28, 1941, the son of Allister and Gertrude (Titcomb) Dawson.

He graduated from Belmont High School, Ohio Wesleyan University and Boston University Law School.

Peter worked in the Criminal Division of the Maine Attorney General's Office before going into private law practice. He was a member of the American Bar Association, Maine Bar Association, Maine Labor Relations Board, where he served as chairman for many years; Row House; Hallowell Centennial Burial Committee, Old South Congregational Church, and served on the Hallowell City Council. 

He also worked with an advisory committee for Eagle Scouts; was a trustee at Kennebec Savings Bank for 35 years and was actively involved with the Ocean Point Colony Trust.

He is survived by his wife of 48 years, Judy Dawson of Hallowell; a son, Jonathan S. Dawson and his wife Kathryn of Pownal; two daughters, Sarah D. Carr and her husband Jon of Yarmouth and Elizabeth D. Holland and her husband Paul of Portland; his foreign exchange student, Patrizia Zanoni of Leuven, Belgium; a brother, Jon F. Dawson and his wife Nancy and their children Julie and Kate of Bangor; six grandchildren, Jane, Alexander and Owen Dawson, Isabel Carr, Henry and Nara Holland; also several nieces, nephews and cousins.

Peter was passionate about skiing, sailing and playing tennis, hockey and golf. He loved Ocean Point, the ocean, and the mountains. 

He was happiest when he was spending time with his friends and family. He will be remembered for his spontaneity, tenacity, warmth, generosity and loyalty.

In lieu of visiting hours, a memorial service will be held at 11 a.m., Friday December 28, at Old South Congregational Church in Hallowell. A reception will follow in the church vestry. 

Memorial contributions may be made to the Pine Tree Council, Peter Dawson Memorial, 131 Johnson Rd., Portland, ME 04102 for Boy Scouts camperships; The Ocean Point Colony Trust Inc., P.O. Box 641, East Boothbay, ME 04544, or a charity of your choice.  Arrangements are in the care of Knowlton and Hewins Funeral Home and Cremation Service, 1 Church St., Augusta.