Dawn Mary Dettore unexpectedly passed away in her sleep on July 30,2024 at her home in Umatilla, Florida. She was reunited with her parents Rosemary (Ott) Dettore and Vincent A. Dettore, along with many other friends and family that went before her. Dawn was born on June 2, 1964 and although was taken too soon, Heaven gained the most beautiful soul. A soul who touched every life she encountered. Dawn grew up in Naplate, Illinois for most of her life. She started as a member in the village board in 1983 and became a mayor in 2003. Dawn was the glue to family and friends and always ensured a community was created. Dawn was a strong fighter and defeated cancer 3 times. She volunteered for many years at Relay for Life, a cancer charity walk. Dawn left behind, her youngest brother, Michael A. (Rosa) Dettore and her two older brothers, Greg S.(Jodi) Dettore and Vincent L. Dettore. Dawn did not have any children of her own, but she was like a “mom”, and the best aunt to all of her nieces, nephews and great nieces and nephews: Brooke Dettore, Cody Newman, Cassie (Adam) Murphy, Briar Dettore, Tyler (Shiane) Dettore, Nadalie Dettore, Michael F. Dettore, Pierce Romoino, Collin Romoino, Mason Hatala, Ethan Snell, Dj Snell, Lisa Snell, Sophia Dettore, Vincent Dettore, Wynter Dettore and just arrived Willow Dawn-Rose Dettore. And her dearest friends in Naplate, Ottawa & Umatilla. Pat (uncle teddy) and Anita were some of Dawn’s close friends in Florida, who soon became family, along with many others. Dawn, our “Dawnie” would make notes to plan our favorite dinners and snacks to whoever was staying over. she would even plan crafts and activities to do with her “kids” for whichever holiday was coming up. She did everything with a heart of gold and always went an extra mile for not only everyone she cared and loved, but also for her community. One thing about Dawn is that when she was in the kitchen you knew in the next few hours you would be eating the best meal or dessert of your life. Every Christmas all her family and friends were blessed with a personalized treat. Dawn would make every cookie you could think of, along with her famous Chex mix, homemade caramel, fudge and beef jerky. Everything she made was homemade, from bread, to any kind of pasta you could think of along with some of the best family recipes that were passed down from generations. Dawn shared her gift with everyone around her, and never left anyone out. Dawn could make a friend any where she went. She was a people person and could talk to anyone, always leaving her mark. Dawn had eyes as blue as the ocean and a smile that could light up any room she entered. She was truly the light in the darkness, and she will never be forgotten. During this time we shall always remember. Those we love don’t go away. They walk beside us everyday. Unseen, unheard, but always near, still loved still missed, and always dear.
Dawn was laid to rest in the Garden of The Ten Commandments at Oakwood Memorial Park in Ottawa, IL.