Dawn Miller, born on March 31, 1961, in Kenosha, Wisconsin, was the daughter of Darlene (Biscardi) Miller and Michael Salerno. She attended schools in Kenosha and Milwaukee, proudly graduating from John Marshall High School in Milwaukee. Her love for nature led her to further her education at Gateway Technical College, where she studied horticulture, nurturing her lifelong appreciation for plants and the beauty they bring to life.
Dawn was a true flower child at heart and found joy in the rhythms of rock and roll, with a special fondness for the soulful music of Bob Marley. His songs resonated with her adventurous spirit and love for life. One of her greatest adventures was sailing from Kenosha to the shores of Michigan and back on a small sailboat—a testament to her love of the open water and new experiences. Dawn had a profound love for her plants, tending to them with care and passion. She was also known for her beautiful smile and infectious laughter; Dawn had a unique ability to light up any room she entered. She also particularly loved chocolate and was known by her family affectionately as the “chocolate thief”. But Dawn’s greatest pride and joy were her children and grandchildren. Being a “Nana” was her greatest gift and took in any opportunity to spend with her family.
The countless memories she created will forever remain in our hearts.
She is survived by her loving children: Nora (Victor) Carrenza and Leif Nehls, grandchildren: Numani Dahlquist, Isabella Jackson, Carmine Marquez, Delilah Nehls, and Reese Nehls, sisters: Susan (Ronald) Antrim and Joan Flatley Rill, brother: Raymond Salerno, brother-in-law: Thomas Baumeister, many nephews & nieces, dear cousins, aunts & uncles good friend and companion Dale Nehls and step mother Arlene Stray. She was preceded in death by her son Jonathan Stewart, her parents, sister Pamela Miller Baumeister, brother: Shannon Salerno and Donald Miller, and a brother-in-law Thomas Flatley III.
As per the family’s wishes, services will be held privately.