Obituary, Dawn Michelle O'Neil Kerkenaar, 57

Dawn was born July 8, 1956 in Everett, Washington. She moved to Alaska with her family when she was little, living on Annette Island and Seward before settling in Petersburg where she grew up and attended school. She passed away unexpectedly at her home in Cleveland, Ohio on Jan. 3, 2014.

Growing up with two brothers who she loved to get in trouble, summers with her cousins that were her "sisters" and friends who she always kept in touch with, was something she treasured and talked about often.

She will be remembered by all who knew her as a fun loving and caring person. Dawn had a special gift, once you met her you instantly became a close friend. She found the good in all and treated friends like family. Life was all about a good time with Dawn; having fun with family and friends was a priority in life. She had a smile as big as the sun and a laugh you would never forget. It was contagious. Laughter was what she did, and boy, that laugh could be heard throughout the entire house. She was a quick favorite to the little ones, playing with and spoiling the kids was something she enjoyed. She was proud to be the "Auntie" to many and that special "Gramma" to the little boy next door.

Dawn met and married a wonderful man, Ron Kerkenaar, and was very happy in life. They traveled and enjoyed the special bond they had together. She loved gardening, traveling, having a good time and playing poker. She was thrilled to get the chance to come to Petersburg last year after being away for so long. She couldn't wait to get here to meet her great nieces and nephew, not to mention to see old friends. She was so happy here.

She was preceded in death by her mother Patricia McCormick O'Neil. She is survived by her husband Ron Kerkenaar; father Bert (Peggy) O'Neil; brothers Dan (Cheryl) and Dennis (Heather) O'Neil; nieces Holli (Casey) Flint, Megan O'Neil, Julie (Eldon) Walker and nephew Scott (Erica) O'Neil; great nieces Cadence and Devyn Flint and great nephew Gavin O'Neil; cousins Jackie, Lorrie, Tammy, and Mike and many close friends.

Rest in sweet paradise Dawn. You are forever in our hearts.