Dawson Roylance was born on December 7, 2000, in the beautiful lakeside town of Sandpoint, Idaho, to Jason and Teddy Sue Roylance. He was named after the Dawson City in Canada's Yukon Territory, a fitting name for someone who would spend much of his life in the mountains he loved. As his Grandpa Ross liked to say, Dawson entered the world as a "a little blonde-haired, blue-eyed monster." Even as a young boy, Dawson was tough, funny, and energetic.

Growing up as the third of six children, alongside his siblings Ross, Cole, Travis, Heber, and Abigail, Dawson was the kind of brother everyone hopes to have-a best friend. Dawson and his family moved frequently, and had many adventures. Having lived in more than 20 different places during his 25 years, Dawson made lifelong friends and impacted people's lives wherever he went.


Dawson loved the mountains. Hunting, shed hunting, dirt biking, fishing, swimming, and just about anything else outdoors were among his greatest passions. Some of his happiest days were spent high on mountaintops or deep in the backcountry with family and friends.

Helping and serving others was a central part of Dawson's character. He was always willing to lend a hand, whether it was to a family member, a friend, a neighbor, or a complete stranger. He never complained, worked hard, and genuinely cared about the people around him. One of the best examples of who Dawson was could be seen in his love for cutting firewood. What began as a family responsibility alongside his father and brothers eventually became one of his favorite pastimes. As he grew older, he would often spend his free time in the mountains gathering firewood, only to quietly deliver it to individuals and families in need, never expecting anything in return. Many who knew Dawson remarked that he was the kind of person who would quite literally give the shirt off his back to help someone else.

In 2019, at the age of 18, Dawson started his own construction company. Through hard work and determination, he went on to build and contribute to many beautiful projects across Montana. Oftentimes partnering and collaborating with family and friends, Dawson accomplished many feats beyond his years. He took pride in doing quality work, believed in doing things the right way, and worked well with everyone. His level-headed nature, fairness, strong work ethic, and willingness to serve earned him the respect of all those around him.

The measure of a life is not found in its length, but in how it is lived. Dawson's was a life well lived. He will be remembered by his family and friends as a man of uncommon character, integrity, and quiet strength. Most importantly, Dawson loved his Savior, Jesus Christ, and believed deeply in the power of prayer. Anyone who had the privilege of hearing Dawson pray knew he had a sincere and deeply personal relationship with God. His legacy will continue in the lives he touched, the examples he set, and the countless acts of kindness that will never be forgotten.

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P.S. - Author's Note

I wish to express my immense gratitude for the love and the support that friends, family, and our community have shown our family during this tragic time.

My brother, Dawson, was one such person who possessed a character that is rarely seen among men today. I'm immensely grateful for the time that we were able to spend together and for how he personally changed my life for the better. I'm grateful I was able to witness such a unique and wonderful life as his.

I witness that the Lord Jesus Christ lives, that He loves us, and that He is so kind to us.

For God so loved the world, that he gave his only begotten Son, that whosoever believeth in him should not perish, but have everlasting life.

- John 3:16 (KJV)

God be with you till we meet again, little brother.