KATHRYN HAWKES PEARSON
DEXTER - Kathryn Hawkes Pearson, 56, passed away July 4, 2008, at her home, after a struggle with a rare cancer, leiomyosarcoma.

She was born Jan. 9, 1952, on Vinalhaven, daughter of Edward and Corinne (Julian) Hawkes. She grew up in Mattawamkeag and Bucksport, and attended the University of Maine, Orono, then resided in Parkman, before moving to Dexter in 1981.

She worked for many years at Erda Leather, Cambridge, and was most recently employed at Abbott Library, Dexter.

Kathy had a deep love for the wild places of Maine and Arizona, and an appreciation of beauty, which was reflected in her gardens and handmade quilts. She was an inspiration to many, always holding herself to the highest standards, facing adversity with integrity, courage and a strong spirit, believing to the end that "rather than wait for the storm to pass, learn to dance in the rain."

In addition to her husband of 34 years, David Brookes Pearson of Dexter, she is survived by her parents, who now reside in Tucson, Ariz.; one daughter, Corey Liv Pearson and her partner, Kevin Huck-aby, of Dexter; as well as a granddaughter, Lena Brooke Pearson; a son, Anders Nathaniel Pearson of New York City; two sisters and their husbands, Trudie and Harry Mailepors of Old Town and Susan and Gerry Palmer of Bangor; a brother, Charles Hawkes of Tucson, Ariz.; as well as several nieces and nephews.

A memorial service celebrating Kathy's life will be held 2 p.m. July 20 at Wayside Grange, Dexter. In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made to CancerCare of Maine and Pine Tree Hospice.

Those wishing to honor Kathryn's memory are asked to be kind to one another and to leave the world a more beautiful place than they found it.