Dawn Renee (Steffes) Vaive, 53, of Battle Creek, MI passed away unexpectedly on Saturday, March 10, 2018 at Bronson Hospital. She was born on March 19, 1964 in Marshall, MI.

Dawn was a graduate of Harper Creek High School, class of 1982, where she earned twelve varsity letters in swimming, volleyball, and softball. In 2009 she was inducted into the Harper Creek Athletic Hall of Fame. She earned her B.S. in Special Education from Western Michigan University, where she was Magnum Cum Laude. Dawn also received her M.S. in Reading from WMU. She taught at the former Lincoln Elementary School for five years before becoming a stay at home mom. In 2012 she resumed her role as an educator at Wattles Park Elementary.

She had the ability to connect with her students, instilling in them a sense of confidence and motivation to overcome their adversities. Dawn was a selfless woman who fought tirelessly for those who did not have a voice. She touched the lives of countless individuals over the course of her young life and her loss will be felt deeply by all.

Dawn’s greatest joy in life was being a mom to Nick and Madi. Having been a cancer survivor (ovarian), her fortitude and love for her children at that time was astounding. She was the pillar of strength and shoulder to cry on for her family at all times. Dawn had a wicked sense of humor and her beauty and grace was something to be admired.

She is survived by her husband of thirty-two years - Harold; two children, Nick and Madison.

A celebration of her life will be held on Friday, March 23, 2018 from 4:00 PM - 7:00 PM at Baxter Funeral and Cremation Service, 375 W. Dickman Road, Battle Creek, MI.

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