SALEM - The world lost a kind, generous and honorable man when James A. Dawson, formerly of Salem, MA, passed away unexpectedly at MGH on April 13, 2023, at the age of 74. James was raised in Newtown, CT and attended Ricker College in Houlton, Maine. James's lifelong love of cars resulted in a 52 year career as the proprietor of Small Wheels (formerly The Bug Inn in Salem, MA), specializing in foreign auto repair, in Swampscott, MA. James was an animal lover and his cat Pierre is lost without him. Most of all, James loved spending time with his family. James leaves behind his beloved wife of almost 27 years, Diane Docekal-Dawson, his son Tyler Dawson, daughter Mary (Christian) Della Piana, grandsons William and Casey Della Piana. James also leaves behind his mother in-law Estelle Sparzynski, sister in-law, Paula (William) Kettler, brothers in-law Frank (Christine) Docekal and Allen Docekal, sister in-law, Gloria Dawson, nieces, nephews, cousins, godson Christopher Henriques, former wife Elizabeth Dawson, dedicated employees David and Arber and many friends. He was predeceased by his parents Henry and May Dawson and brother, Henry (Hank) Dawson.

Please consider contributions in his memory to the Northeast Animal Shelter, 347 Highland Avenue, Salem, MA 01970 or at www.neas.org. There will be a Celebration of Life planned for July or August that will be announced online. Arrangements by Driscoll Funeral Home, Haverhill. For guestbook and more information on his life, please visit www.driscollcares.com.