Dawn Michelle Schaefer, a woman of humble spirit and compassionate heart, left us on January 1, 2025. Born on April 28, 1966, in South Bend, IN, Dawn had a life that was filled with joy, laughter, and love. She was a loyal friend, a thoughtful daughter, and a devoted spouse. Her life was a testament to the quote, “A life lived for others is a life worthwhile.”
Dawn moved through life as gracefully as she moved through the stages of theatre – a passion she truly loved. She spent time in Ft Wayne, Indiana, Lansing, MI, and finally settled in Niles, MI. She married her soulmate, Bryce Schaefer, on March 24, 2001, and they lived a life of love and shared interests. From singing to fishing, from bowling to racing, Dawn lived her life to the fullest, always with a smile on her face and a song in her heart. Her career as a secretary in Medical Billing was marked by the same dedication and diligence that she brought to her personal life. She retired from Rural King, leaving behind a legacy of hard work and commitment.
Dawn’s life was not measured by the awards she achieved but by the lives she touched. Her theatre awards were a testament to her talent, but what mattered most to Dawn was her husband Bryce, her mother Delores Stewart, and her family and friends. She was preceded in death by her father, Jesse Willard, but his influence lived on in her humility and strength.
While we mourn the loss of Dawn, we also celebrate her life and the love she shared with us all. We invite you to share your memories of Dawn, to upload photos and celebrate a life beautifully lived. Her spirit continues to inspire us to live with compassion, loyalty, and thoughtfulness, for as the quote goes, “The best way to find yourself is to lose yourself in the service of others.” Dawn found herself, and in doing so, she touched our lives forever.
Memorial service for Dawn will be held by the family on Saturday, January 25, 2025 at 11 am at First Church of Christ, 2240 Yankee St., Niles, MI 49120. In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made in her memory to Heartland Hospice, 8075 Creekside Dr # 120, Portage, MI 49024.
Arrangements have been entrusted to Hoven Funeral Home, Buchanan.