Dorothy “Dawn” McQuaid Felthousen, age 92, passed away peacefully surrounded by family members in her Southern Shores, NC home on June 14, 2022.
Dawn was born and raised in Buffalo, NY and graduated from Mount St. Mary’s Academy after serving as her senior class President. She then spent 53 years married to her late husband, Charles E. Felthousen, a decorated United States Navy Commander. A dedicated mother of 6 children, Dawn made continuous sacrifices to raise her family while simultaneously serving our country as a supportive military spouse.
In the late 1960’s, the Navy relocated Charlie and Dawn to Virginia Beach, VA where all 6 children graduated from Frank W. Cox High School before attending college. All of her children competed on various athletic teams with notable successes in wrestling and field hockey. Dawn was often recognized as the “team mom” because she helped in raising numerous other student athletes by extending her time, motherly touch and encouragement.
In 1985, Dawn and Charlie retired to the Outer Banks of NC where they met balance and a well-earned relaxing lifestyle. These years were filled with memorable beach days and weekly rounds of golf at Duck Woods Country Club. Dawn also enjoyed quilting, puzzling, and a day at the movies. She remained a devout member of the Catholic Church until her passing, worshiping our Lord faithfully at Holy Redeemer by the Sea Catholic Church.
She has 2 surviving brothers, Ronnie and Peter, and is predeceased by siblings, Claudia (Doyle), JoAnn (Moore), and Jim. Her enthusiasm for life and all things good remains with her surviving children: Greg, Gary, Glenn, Kim (Sendzik), and Kris. We find peace in knowing Dawn is finally reunited with her loving son, Kurt, who passed in 1988. Our mother’s legacy of love continues through her 17 grandchildren and 9 great-grandchildren.
Dawn was everything to many, as she always gave her full self to those that were lucky enough to know her. She was known as the best hostess to her friends, family, and all guests that walked within her home. She will be remembered for her specialty ice cream sodas, love of chocolate, and affinity for soaking up the sun. Her contribution to the world is immeasurable and she will forever be missed.
The family wishes to express its utmost gratitude to the staff at Adoration Hospice, Manteo, NC for the care and compassion provided to Dawn alongside her children over the last 6 months. In lieu of flowers, donations in her memory can be made to the Peter Decker Children’s Charity, and/or to a First Tee Golf Program in your local community.
A celebration Mass of the Resurrection will be held July 15, 2022 at 11am at Holy Redeemer By-the-Sea Catholic Church, Kitty Hawk, NC with reception to follow. A private interment will be held July 18, 2022 at 12pm at Princess Anne Memorial Park, Virginia Beach, VA.
Keep smiling Dawn, as you have upon us, always!
Twiford Funeral Homes, Outer Banks is assisting the family with arrangements. Condolences and memories may be shared at www.TwifordFH.com.
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Twiford Funeral Home (Outer Banks)
500 Budleigh Street, PO Box 595,
Fax: (252) 473-3392
Email: David.Jr@TwifordFH.com
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Deloras Nelms
So sorry to hear of this great loss. From reading her obituary, it seems evident that Dawn lived a beautiful, long life. Prayers and love to all who loved her, and especially my sweet neighbors, the Kris Felthousen Family❤️
Marilyn and Wally Wahl
We are so very sorry for your loss sending love and prayers to you
Val Cummings
She fought the good fight and ran the race for the prize. Your parish family at Holy Redeemer will miss you. Enjoy heaven, Dawn!
Leary Sink
Kris and family,
I am sorry for the loss of your Mom. I know she was an amazing woman, married to your amazing Dad who my father thought the world of.
Please know your family is in my thoughts and prayers during this difficult time.
Jim Braithwaite
My thoughts and prayers go out to the Felthousen family. Mrs Felthousen was such a fine lady . She was always so friendly and made you feel comfortable. I always enjoyed seeing and talking to her. She will surely be missed by all that were lucky to have known her .Your family has my deepest sympathy.
Thomas Anderson
May God You With His Peace and Comfort
Richard and Annette Parr
We are left with wonderful memories of Dawn! We had many great times while our children were at Cox High School! She left a wonderful legacy with the children and friends… I know Kurt and Charlie are dancing with her in heaven!!!
Ruby Ann Pritchett
She was a lovely lady and devoted mother. My prayers and sincere condolences go out to her family.
Ruby Ann Pritchett
Jane Novey
Kim, my sympathy to you and your family on the passing of your Mom.
Constance Quart
Your Mom was a lovely lady. She always welcomed me, and was so giving of her time and kindness. She loved you all very much, as I know you did her❤️My deepest condolences . She had a beautiful life.
Sean Mulligan
I read Dawns obituary with great interest as I knew Charlie and Dawn Felthousen extremely well.Supportive military spouse stood out.My father was shot down over North Vietnam in March of 66.After the school year we moved back to Virginia Beach from Jacksonville Florida.Shortly there after we met the Felthousen family.Even though they had a family of 6 they took me under there wings.It was a tough time and they were so kind.I spent a lot of time at there house.When my mom was in DC trying to keep the release of POW’s a priority I stayed at the Felthousens.I have fond memories time spent with them at DamNeck beach.Riding in the Impala convertible was a hoot.We played basketball, caught turtles in the lake out back and had some great whiffle ball games.In 1973 my father returned and I saw less of the Felthousens .Every now and then I would go to a party at there house or see them at the Cork and Cleaver.Then in 1986 I moved to the Outer Banks and wouldn’t you know it Charlie and Dawn lived down the street.I was drinking Margaritas at there house when the call from my wife came in that her water had broken with our first child.We had no cell phones back then and the second place she called was Charlies number as she was in VB.Sadly I was with Kurt when he passed away in Rodanthe.We have been through thick and thin and I was certainly very lucky to have them in my life.I saw Dawn 3 weeks ago and even though she was near the end we had a very memorable conversation.If they gave out medals for supportive military families they would certainly get one.Wonderful people from a wonderful generation.
Mary Dietz
The world lost a beautiful soul but heaven is gaining! Sympathy to her wonderful children. With love and sorrow. Mary Dietz.
Sue Lang
I received the Mount St Mary magazine today and thought of Dawn..texted her number and it did not go through..found her story online and send my condolences to her beautiful family..I was a bridesmaid for Dawn and Charley and have fond memories of our days at the Mount and after. A Mass will be offered at the Mission
in Santa Barbara in her name.
with blessings, Sue O.Connor Lang
Nancy Savage
Glen and family,
My thoughts and prayers are with you during this difficult time.