Mr. Thomas N. "Tom" Dawes

UTICA – Mr. Thomas N. “Tom” Dawes, age 83, passed away peacefully on Sunday, September 7, 2025. Born in Utica on May 26, 1942, Thomas was the son of the late Roy Francis and Helen Margaret (O’Neil) Dawes. He was raised in Clinton and graduated from Clinton High School. He later earned a barber’s certificate in Syracuse, which led to his owning and operating Tom’s Barber Shop on Varick Street for 50 years. On July 29, 1978, Tom married the former Dona R. Arcuri. Together, they shared a devoted union that lasted over 47 years. Tom possessed a naturally friendly nature and was well known by his many loyal customers over the years. He genuinely enjoyed the people he served. A devoted father, Tom put countless miles on his vehicle traveling to support his sons in all their activities. He was later rejuvenated by the births of his grandchildren, who brought him great joy. During the holidays, he would dress as Santa Claus for them—a tradition that lifted his spirits and theirs alike. Just as he had with his children, Tom proudly followed his grandchildren’s activities and milestones. A passionate sports enthusiast, Tom had a particular love for hockey—and he was proud to pass that love on to his sons. He was always supportive, cheering them on in all their athletic pursuits and life endeavors. It goes without saying that he was their biggest fan. Tom was a faithful parishioner of St. Anthony & St. Agnes Church. Tom is survived by his wife, Dona; sons and daughters-in-law, Dominick A. and Katherine Dawes, Patrick J. and Elizabeth N. Dawes, Alexander M. Dawes and his wife Dr. Laura Bowman; sons from a previous marriage, Thomas Dawes, and Stephen Dawes; grandchildren, twins Lily, and Dominick, and Paxton Dawes; Rosalyn Dawes; he was proud to know he would be expecting a grandson in November; and his sister, Jean Drake (the late Vernon Drake). He cherished in his heart the memory of his siblings who preceded him, Richard Dawes (Sue Dawes), Joseph Dawes, Sarah Dawes, and Joan Marie Dawes. He is further survived by many nieces, nephews, great-nieces, great-nephews, cousins; and in-laws, Mary Jo Manno (the late Joseph S. “Joe” Manno) and Filomena Salsbury (the late Thomas M. Salsbury). He was additionally predeceased by his father-in-law and mother-in-law, Dominick A. “Dick” and Filomena “Fanny” (Cherry) Cerasi Arcuri; and his great-nephew, Baby Nicholas Joseph “Nico” Zimmerman. The family would like to extend their heartfelt gratitude to Tom’s primary physician, Dr. Christina Aranda, and her staff, as well as the visiting nurses, visiting caregivers, and the nurses and staff at Wynn Hospital, for their compassionate care and professionalism. Relatives and friends are respectfully invited to attend Thomas’ Memorial Mass of Christian Burial and Celebration of Life, which will commence on Monday, September 15, 2025, at 12:00 p.m., at St. Anthony & St. Agnes Church, 422 Tilden Ave. There will be an opportunity to greet the family at the conclusion of Mass. In lieu of floral offerings, memorial contributions in Thomas’ honor may be made to Utica Zoo online at https://www.uticazoo.org/donate/, Anita’s Stevens Swan Humane Society in honor of his love of animals online at https://www.anitas-sshs.org/donate, or St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital online at https://www.stjude.org/donate/donate-to-st-jude.html; envelopes will be available at the service. Arrangements have been entrusted to the Eannace Funeral Home, Inc., 932 South St., corner of Hammond Ave.

Mr. Thomas N. "Tom" Dawes

May 26, 1942 - September 7, 2025