Dawn Ann Fraze

Dawn was born October 27, 1954, in Lansing, Michigan to the late Warren and Donna (Dillenbeck) Garrett. On November 5, 1994, she married Robert “Bob” Fraze who preceded her in death December 19, 2021.

Dawn spent her life as a caregiver in and outside of her home, starting as a child, helping to care for her beloved younger brother, Freddie. In her adult life, she was an N.A., working at St. Anthony’s Hospital, Red Oaks Nursing Home, and Woodview Nursing Home, all formerly located in Michigan City, IN. She won the hearts of patients for many years with her loving and compassionate care. Dawn was a loving mother, always sacrificing to make sure that her children had what they needed. She was strong, selfless, and loved with her whole being. Later in life, she enjoyed spending time watching her grandchildren do the things that meant the most to them, such as showing draft horses at the 4-H fair, racing quarter-midget cars, and countless show-choir, band, and orchestra concerts. She was called “Nonny” by the grandkids. They often called her “the fun Nonny”. She would play just as hard as the kids, to the point of injury at times.

In her years after losing the love of her life, she found the love she lacked in a new companion. Her dog, Buddy. She often said that he saved her as much as she saved him. He was her most loyal, protective, and loving companion.

Dawn has attended Cross Lane Community Church since late 2022 when she relocated to Terre Haute.

Surviving are six children, Kimberly Kozera, Kerry (Tommy Hughes) Fraze, Cari (Art) Hanson, Kristina (Mark) Raymond, Kevin Fraze, and Michael (Heather) Cioch; 14 grandchildren; 3 great-grandchildren; one brother, Larry (Peggy) Garrett; one sister, Tonda (Steve) Cochran; two special sisters-in-law, Judy (Jerry, deceased) Corley and Linda (Stan) Freed; and several nieces and nephews.

She was preceded in death by her parents and brother, Freddie Garrett, as well as her loving husband Robert.

At Dawn’s request, there will be no burial or church service. A small, family Celebration of Life will take place at a later date (to be determined) this summer.