Dawn Schnase

Dawn Schnase of Tower City, North Dakota, passed away peacefully on January 16, 2026, at HIA Heather’s House in Fargo, North Dakota, surrounded by love. After a courageous and unwavering battle with cancer, Dawn left this world with the same quiet strength, grace, and resilience that defined her life. Her journey was one of remarkable courage, and she inspired all who knew her with her steadfast spirit and gentle heart.

Dawn was born on May 15, 1971, in Minot, North Dakota, and was raised in the small community of Tolley, where she developed a deep appreciation for close-knit community life and the beauty of the natural world. Those early years shaped her love for wide-open spaces, fresh air, and the simple peace found outdoors. She and her family later moved to Drake and graduated from Drake High School in 1989. In her younger years, Dawn loved music, movies, laughter, and time spent with friends — especially Gil, her high school sweetheart and the love of her life. During her school years, she also enjoyed playing basketball, bringing her quiet determination and team spirit to the court.

Following graduation, Dawn attended Minot State University, where she studied information processing and accounting. Her commitment to learning continued as she earned a certificate in information processing from Interstate Business College. Dawn approached both her education and her career with dedication, always striving to grow, improve, and do her very best.

Dawn and Gil’s love story began in their youth and blossomed into a lifetime commitment when they were married on June 23, 1990. From that day forward, their love became the steady foundation of their lives — a bond that carried them across states, through seasons of joy and challenge, and into 35 years of unwavering devotion. They began their married life in Fargo before spending five meaningful years in Huntsville, Alabama, where they welcomed their daughter, Danielle. Returning home to North Dakota, they settled permanently in Tower City in 1997, where their family grew again in 2002 with the birth of their son, Jacob, and their love continued to deepen.

In 1996, Dawn began her career at MeritCare in Fargo, later known as Sanford Health. Her work was more than a profession; it was a place where she built lasting friendships and found a deep sense of purpose. Dawn took great pride in what she did and truly loved her work. Her colleagues became a second family — one she cherished deeply — and she was especially grateful for the mentors and friends who supported, guided, and walked alongside her throughout her career.

Dawn found her greatest peace outdoors. She loved the quiet rhythm of tending her garden, the feel of soil between her fingers, and the joy of watching life grow and bloom under her care. Spring and summer were her favorite seasons, when her garden came alive — a reflection of Dawn herself: nurturing, patient, and full of quiet beauty. Being outside brought her calm and comfort, and it was where her spirit felt most at home.

Above all else, Dawn’s heart belonged to her family. Her love was steady, selfless, and unwavering. She was a devoted wife, a loving mother, and a constant source of warmth and support to those she held close. Her kindness, gentle presence, and enduring love will live on in the hearts of all who knew her.

Dawn is survived by her beloved husband, Gil Schnase; her daughter, Danielle Rowell, and her husband, Jason; her son, Jacob Schnase; and her cherished granddaughter, Piper Rowell. She is also survived by her mother, Carol Spear Triplett; her mother-in law Gladys Schnase and father-in-law Jerry Schnase; her brother, David Spear, and his partner Stacey; her sister, DeAnna Frantsen, and her fiancé Chris; her step-sister, Samantha Triplett, and her partner Duane; her step-sister, Roberta Rieger, and her husband, Jamie; her brothers-in-law, John Schnase and his wife, Melinda, and Clem Schnase and his wife, Laurel; along with numerous aunts and uncles, many nieces and nephews, extended family members, dear friends, and her treasured work family.

Dawn was preceded in death by her father, Terry Spear; her stepfather, Theron Triplett; her grandparents; and Ray Frantsen, her brother-in-law.

Dawn is deeply loved and will be forever missed by her family, friends, and cherished work family. Though her time here feels far too short, her legacy of love, strength, and grace will continue to grow — much like the gardens she so tenderly cared for — in the lives of all she touched.

Celebration of Life:  11am to 1pm, Saturday, January 31, 2026, at West Funeral Home, West Fargo, ND

West Funeral Home & Life Tribute Center

westfuneralhome.com

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