Dawn L. Coplien

Coplien, Dawn Lynette MADISON-Dawn Lynette Coplien, age 54, passed away on Saturday, Feb. 28, 2015, at her home after a courageous year long battle with cancer. She was born on Aug. 28, 1960, in Rockford, Ill., the daughter of Dale and Betty (Spaulding) St. John. Dawn graduated from Monona Grove High School in 1978 and then attended and graduated from MATC. She married Gregg Coplien on Sept. 16, 1989, in Monona. Dawn worked for Madison General/Meriter Hospital for 19 years as a Certified ART Medical Records Supervisor and for the past ten years with Wisconsin Management Company as a Compliance Specialist where she earned accreditation as a Certified Occupancy Specialist. Dawn enjoyed camping, sewing, cooking and was a long time fan of NASCAR racing, having attended the Michigan race for the past 22 years. She was a regular donor to the American Red Cross, having recently surpassed 12.5 gallons. Dawn’s zest for life was exceeded only by the love for her family. She always prioritized others’ needs before her own. Dawn will be remembered for being a pillar of courage, strength and dignity throughout her illness. Dawn is survived by her husband, Gregg; two daughters, Tracy (Shane) Gannon and Ashley (Eric) Rice; grandchildren, Alex and Braxton, and Chloe and Jacob; her parents; mother-in-law, Joyce Coplien; brothers, Dennis St. John and Stanley (Jean) St. John; sister, Sherri Jo (Michael) St. John; brother-in-law, James (Gertrude) Coplien; and eight nieces and nephews and their families. She was preceded in death by her father-in-law, Dwight Coplien. Private Services will be held for the immediate family to be followed by a Celebration of Dawn’s life, which will be announced and held at a later date. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to the family for a charity that is yet to be determined. The family wishes to thank Dr. Huie of the Carbone Cancer Center, Dr. Cooley of UW Radiation Oncology and their wonderful staffs, Agrace HospiceCare and many very special friends for their care and support. Online condolences may be made at www.gundersonfh.com. Gunderson East Funeral & Cremation Care 5203 Monona Drive (608)221-5420