Dawn Marie Kuswik (née Friend), age 60, passed away unexpectedly on Monday, October 19, 2026, leaving

behind a lifetime of cherished memories and a family who loved her dearly.

Born on July 30, 1966, Dawn was the beloved daughter of Donald Friend and Donna Friend (née Held).

Dawn was a devoted wife to her husband, Stanley Kuswik, and a loving mother to her children, Jacob and

Karine. She is also survived by her loving mother, Donna Friend, and her brothers, Donald "Don" Friend and

Darryl Friend. She was preceded in death by her father, Donald Friend.

Dawn had an outgoing personality and a wonderful way of connecting with people. She enjoyed life's simple

pleasures and found her greatest happiness in the people she loved. Creative and thoughtful, Dawn especially

enjoyed making homemade gifts for family and friends. Each gift was more than something she had made with

her hands; it was a little piece of her heart, given with love.

One of Dawn's favorite pastimes was thrifting with her mother, Donna. Together, they shared countless

adventures searching for hidden treasures, enjoying each other's company, and making memories along the way.

What might have seemed like an ordinary shopping trip to others was something special to them—a chance to

laugh, discover something unexpected, and simply enjoy being together.

Dawn was also an active member of United in Faith Church in Chicago, where she shared her time and

talents in many meaningful ways. She played in the handbell choir, sang in the church choir, and taught Sunday

School. Through her music, her faith, and her dedication to teaching children, Dawn touched the lives of many

within her church community.

Her love of helping others extended beyond the church. Dawn was deeply involved in the Girl Scouts, serving

as a troop leader and dedicating her time to guiding and encouraging young girls. She enjoyed being part of

their experiences and helping create memories and opportunities that would stay with them as they grew.

Above all else, Dawn loved her family. Her outgoing spirit, her creativity, her faith, and the thoughtful ways she

showed her love will be remembered by those who knew her best. She understood that the most meaningful

things in life were often the simplest—a homemade gift, a shared laugh, a special find, or time spent with

someone you love.

Dawn's passing leaves a space in the hearts of her family and friends that can never truly be filled. Yet her

memory will live on in the things she lovingly created, the children she helped guide, the music she shared, and

the countless moments that made her so special.

Dawn had a gift for finding beauty in things others might overlook, turning simple treasures into

something special, and making the people around her feel loved. While her time with us was far too short,

the love she gave and the memories she created will last forever.

She will be deeply missed, forever loved, and always remembered.