Dawn is preceded in death by her parents. She is survived by her husband, Mark Rolland, sisters, Rebecca Meisner and Rhonda Harris, brother, Michael Springer, and her children Jamie (Lowell) Warnhoff, Jared (Jessica) Lanham, Lisa Rolland-Keith, Joshua (Ali) Lanham and Jennifer (Steven) Krigbaum. She is blessed with nine grandchildren -- with two more on the way -- and three great-grandchildren.
As a child, Dawn moved wherever her dad's work needed him, finally settling down in Phoenix. A graduate of Alhambra High School and Grand Canyon University, she continued to develop her musicaI and theatrical skills even while working at Diamonds Department Store and later as a Kindergarten teacher.
An accomplished musician and music director, Dawn has performed with groups as varied as the Phoenix Symphony Chorus to the Oak Ridge Boys. Her fondest memories were of directing her own Phoenix Academy of the Performing Arts and later serving as vocal director for Horizon High School's acclaimed musicals. Her more somber career memories include working as a flight attendant for America West Airlines during the time of 9/11.
Dawn and Mark enjoyed traveling together, as well as with family and friends. Together, they visited Ireland, Spain, France and many other countries.
Dawn also loved to organize social events and often half-jokingly referred to herself as "Julie from the Love Boat."
She adored swans, as a glance around her home would quickly show, and she was a lifetime "leafer" who loved the turning of the leaves in autumn.
With her grandchildren, who know her as "Mema" or "Nana," she not only shared her love of swans, lavender and music, but also her deep love for our Lord, Jesus Christ.
A Celebration of Life will be held at 2:00 p.m. on Saturday, June 1, at Faith Bible Church, 17230 N 59th Ave, Glendale, AZ 85308. (602) 368-7100.
In honor of Dawn, guests are encouraged to wear her favorite colors, pink and lavender.
The family suggests that, in lieu of flowers, donations can be made to the Phoenix Conservatory of Music. (pcmrocks.org)
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