Dawn Marie Kauffman, of Durand, Michigan, passed away peacefully on August 19, 2026, at the age of 70. She was born on February 15, 1956, in Durand, Michigan, to Frank and Thelma Knapp. Dawn attended Beecher High School and went on to earn her cosmetology license. She moved to Denton, Texas, where she worked in hair care at JCPenney for several years. It was there that she met her husband, Darrell Kauffman, a United States Army recruiter. They shared 41 years of marriage and built a life together that took them to several places, including Washington State and Michigan. Dawn became a mother to Damon before meeting Darrell, and together they welcomed two more children, Daniel and Devon. Eventually, her roots brought the family back to Michigan, where they settled in Bellevue, purchased a home, and began an unforgettable adventure raising exotic animals on their farm. A few moves later, Dawn and Darrell embraced their lives as snowbirds, spending summers at their seasonal campsite in Girard, Michigan, and winters in Alamo, Texas. After Darrell's passing in 2020, Dawn returned to her roots in Durand, where she made her final home close to the friends and family she loved so dearly. Dawn truly did it all. She had a remarkable ability to learn and master just about anything she put her mind to. She was a talented seamstress who could make everything from curtains and upholstery coverings to clothing. She was also a creative crafter, wonderful cook and baker, and an avid fan of DIY craft videos on YouTube. You never quite knew what her next project would be, but you could always count on her making something special. Throughout her life, Dawn held many different careers and embraced every opportunity that came her way. She worked in office management, built businesses through Tupperware and Avon, and ultimately spent nearly 25 years as a Mary Kay consultant. Through her work and her everyday life, Dawn found countless ways to connect with and help others. Above all else, Dawn's greatest joy was helping people. She treasured her family, especially her grandchildren, and cherished every opportunity to spend time with friends and loved ones. Her generous heart, creativity, determination, and ability to make something beautiful out of almost anything will be deeply missed.

Dawn was preceded in death by her son, Daniel Kauffman; her beloved husband, Darrell Kauffman; her brother, Terry Knapp; her parents, Frank and Thelma Knapp; and numerous other beloved family members. Surviving are her son, Damon Knapp (Lisa); her daughter, Devon Farkas (Jay); and her beloved grandchildren, Baleigh Knapp, Katelyn Knapp, Harleigh Farkas, Emilee Farkas, Austin Kauffman, Wyatt Kauffman, and Elly Kauffman; her brother, Amos (Kelly) Knapp and numerous family and friends. Dawn leaves behind a lifetime of memories, countless people whose lives she touched, and a family who will carry her love with them always. Her adventurous spirit, creative hands, generous heart, and love for those around her will never be forgotten. Despite great effort, she never declared who her favorite child was; however, she mentioned often her favorite daughter-in-law and son-in-law, Lisa and Jay. Rest peacefully, Dawn. You were loved, you were cherished, and you will be deeply missed.

A Graveside Service will be held Friday August 28, 2026 at 10:00 am at Fort Custer National Cemetery, 15501 W. Dickman Rd. Augusta, MI 49012. Followed by a memorial luncheon at Convis Township Hall,19500 15 Mile Rd. Marshall, MI 49068 from 11:30 am to 3:00 pm.