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June 10, 1943 – October 21, 2012

Dawna was born in Vancouver, BC to Margaret and Arthur Cooper. Dawna is sister to Dale, Judy, Leah and Denae. Dawna filled the role of ‘big sister’ taking care of her siblings. A tiny but tough girl grew into a tiny but tough woman who always championed for the underdog or for those who could not or would not speak up for themselves.

Dawna worked many years at the Bank of Montreal and Royal Bank of Canada. She was also a dedicated volunteer for the schools her children attended. Dawna lived in Terrace from 1956-1983 at which time she and her husband Elmer, and children Stacey and Karyle moved to the Williams Lake area to take up farming. She immensely enjoyed tending to her cows, all of which had names; her chickens; ducks; horses and various other animals from time to time.

Dawna, Elmer and granddaughter Maggy moved back to Terrace in 2004 to be close to her daughters as it was apparent Elmer’s health was deteriorating and she knew she would need help and support. Elmer passed away on October 17, 2010.

Dawna continued to be an active part of the community even though she found it more and more difficult to leave home due to her health condition COPD. She filled roles on the Terraceview Lodge Family Council, City of Terrace Seniors Advisory Council, Skeena Diversity Group, Emergency Social Services Team and more.

Dawna is survived by her Children: Mike, Tina (Karl), Stacey (John) and Karyle. Grandchildren: Jennifer (Glenys), Sean, Trista, Karli, Robert, Daniel (Kristen), Kevin, Maggy and Shane. Dawna is predeceased by her parents Margaret and Arthur, husband Elmer and daughter Cindy.

Dawna enjoyed poetry and was an accomplished and published writer and has left us many gifts. Dawna hated goodbyes and instead said, “I’ll see you again” ~


“Wings of the Eagle”

She soars on the wings of the Eagle.

Toward the Heavens she doth Fly.

Her spirit released from Bondage…

Light as air She floats on High.

No more pain nor Worries…

No more dark of Night.

Free among the rainbows She lives

In the prism of Gods pure light.

~Dawna Marie Ottenbreit



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