Dawn Mare Wright Ekness, 62

Dawn passed away on Aug. 7, 2022, following a courageous battle with cancer. She grew up in Coeur d'Alene, Idaho, attended Coeur d'Alene High School and then graduated from the University of Idaho with a master's degree in music.

She devoted her life teaching music to thousands of students and recently received "Teacher of the Year" award at Monmouth Elementary School in Albany, Ore., where she spent her final years.

She is survived by many who loved her: her wife and partner of 32 years Kathleen of Albany; their daughters, son, and families of Albany; her mother Joyce of Post Falls; brothers Kevin (Jamie) of Post Falls, Keith of Coeur d'Alene, Kyle (Scott) of Spirit Lake; younger sister Julie; and numerous nephews and niece. She was preceded in death by her dad Lyle.

Her service will be held Thursday, Aug. 25, at 3 p.m. at St. Paul's Episcopal Church, 1444 Liberty St. SE in Salem, Ore.