Retiring teacher, coach urges Colony grads to ‘find their 68’
By Jeremiah Bartz Frontiersman.com A football coach using a hockey reference as the centerpiece for his keynote address may
October 4, 1960 - July 19, 2025
We mourn the passing of Dawn LaRae (Stetter) Marquez on July 19th, 2025, and rejoice that she is now with her Lord and finally at peace. A precious part of our life, we cherish those years we spent with her. Dawn was born on Oct 4th, 1960, in Deadwood S.D. to Donald and Lorraine (Kalmbach) Stetter. The first of 4 children, she was joined by brothers, Troy and Ken, along with a sister Felice. Dawn attended school in Lead S.D. before the family moved to Wasilla Alaska in summer of 1975, where she resided until her death.
Dawn married Jake Marquez in 1980 and to this union 2 children, Trustin and Myrranda. Early in their marriage they established Knik Landscaping with Dawn sharing a role in the business as Secretary, bookkeeper, along with responsibilities as a mother and loving wife. Alaska was home for 50 years, although she loved and enjoyed coming home to the Black Hills of S.D. where she grew up.
Dawn was a bit of an old hippie, still enjoying the 70's music and Led Zeppelin was a favorite. She had a large love for animals, dogs in particular, along with a big heart seeking to help those less fortunate. She had a kind spirit, enjoyed collecting antiques and loved reminiscing about her younger years in S.D. Her unshakeable faith in her Lord and his teachings helped her fight health challenges until her life on earth ended.
Dawn is survived by her son Trustin (Anna) Marquez, Houston TX; her daughter Myrranda (Tom) Hills, Bend OR; a brother Ken (Bonnie) Stetter Wasilla AK; a sister Felice (Aaron) Schilling, Denver CO; 2 grandchildren Indi & Bowie Hills along with her good friend and caretaker, Victoria Walsh. She is also survived by stepfather Curtis Lee (Athylene) Huskins. She was preceded in death by her parents, her brother Troy and niece Crystal Stetter.
Dawn's loving spirit will remain forever in our hearts.
*A celebration of life will be held Sunday, July 27th at Amvets in Wasilla, from 2-7 p.m.