Steve’s Trees was indeed founded by a Steve, however in 2020 the original Steve decided it was time to retire to the North Pole.

Enter: Thomas Dawson

Tom, known as Papa by his grandkids and most people, had been in the Christmas Tree game since he was a teenager in San Francisco. His uncle Don opened the first lot, and hired his rag tag crew of nephews to help him run the place. This is where Tom’s love for the business took root: spending time with family, and spreading Christmas cheer.

In the 80’s Tom stepped into a leadership position by owning and managing Don’s Trees in Novato. Shortly after, he met his beautiful wife Betty, and it didn’t take long for the two of them to turn their little business into a staple of the community during the holidays.

Since then it has really become a family affair! Both of Tom and Betty’s daughters stepped in to work the lot along with their husbands, and eventually all the grandchildren as well (second eldest kid here! Who else would be making the website).

When Tom and Betty purchased Steve’s Trees in 2020 it brought the family business much closer to home, Napa. We are proud to serve our neighbors and to carry forward Tom’s values:

1. Be kind. To everyone.

2. Be compassionate.

3. Connection is everything - with family, friends, and neighbors

We understand that the holiday season is important to everyone in their own way, and Tom set the example of spreading as much joy as possible during our short time spent with you, outside in the trees or at checkout.

Tom, our beloved Papa, passed away in May 2025 after a brave battle with cancer. He was easy to mistake for Santa Claus with his jolly spirit, and his legacy lives on in the laughter, kindness, and Christmas cheer he shared with everyone.

We miss him dearly, but we are committed to keeping his tradition alive: spreading peace and goodwill to all, one tree at a time.