Dawn Kay Broeders

Resided in Rapid River, MI
Died September 25, 2021

Dawn Kay Broeders, 79, of Sun City, Arizona passed away at home surrounded by family on Saturday, September 25, 2021. Dawn was born March 29,1942 in Kalamazoo, Michigan, the daughter of George and Elizabeth (Rowen) Wilbee. She and her husband John Broeders were teenage sweethearts and married at the Congregational Church in Rapid River on June 9, 1962. They made their home in Rapid River where they shared most of their married life before retiring to Sun City, Arizona.

Dawn began her working life as a secretary for Mead Paper Company. When her father needed more extensive care for his illness, she left her job and devoted her time to his caregiving. After his passing she became the caregiver for her great-uncle, Tom Tennant.
In 1973 she and John opened their own grocery store, the B&W IGA in Rapid River, Michigan. They spent the next 18 years working alongside their family and building a thriving business in the community.

In 1991, Dawn and her husband opened an adult foster care home, Broeders Garth Shores AFC. She provided love and care for her residents as if they were her own family.

In 2007, Dawn joined John in retirement and made their main home in Sun City, Arizona. She spent the remainder of her years between Michigan and Arizona enjoying family and friends in both places.

Dawn was blessed by having a loving church family at All Saints Lutheran Church in Phoenix, Arizona and Calvary Lutheran Church in Rapid River, Michigan.

Dawn was a loving wife and was devoted to her children and grandchildren. Her family was always the center of her life. Along with her husband John she is survived by her daughter, Deborah (Juergen) Erkert of Glendale, AZ; daughter Sandra (Brent) Sauve of Rapid River, MI; son Charles (Larry) Broeders of Bay City, MI; and daughter Sherri Broeders-Johnston of Peoria, AZ. She is also survived by a brother, Robert (Sheree) Wilbee of Rapid River, MI and sister-in-law Sharon Wilbee, Rapid River, MI. In addition to her children she is survived by nine grandchildren: Jason Erkert, Mitchell (Sarah) Erkert, Keith Erkert, Jessica (Adnan) Sauve-Syed, Blair Sauve, Brendin (Jaszma) Broeders, Morgan Rodriguez, Jacob Johnston, and Rachel Holm. Dawn also has five great grandchildren: Ella, Emilia, and Deacon Erkert, Ilyana Syed, and Skye Rodriguez. She is also survived by numerous nieces and nephews.

Dawn was preceded in death by her parents, George and Elizabeth (Rowen) Wilbee and brother Fred Wilbee.
A memorial service will be held Friday, October 15, 2021 at Calvary Lutheran Church in Rapid River at 6:00 p.m. The family will be available for conversation and condolences from 4:00 p.m. until the service begins. A meal and fellowship will follow in the hall of Calvary Lutheran Church after the service.

7 Tributes for “Dawn Kay Broeders

    Dawn was a special woman. Hard working, a great cook & loved caring for people. The coffee pot was always on if anyone stopped for a visit. I’m sad that we never got the chance to meet between Sun City & Tucson where I’m living now after moving from the U.P.
    Family was very important to Dawn & I know that they will miss her dearly as will all of her admiring friends & neighbors. My deepest sympathies to John & the family. Know that you are all in my thoughts & prayers.

    Dear John and loved ones of Dawn, Pete and I were saddened to hear of Dawn’s passing. We think of all the memories shared over the years, and it is our plan to attend her Memorial Serviceon the15th. Our sympathy, Pete and Cindy

    Sandy & Brent…We we’re sorry to hear about your mother passing away. She was such a caring and wonderful person. We will never forget her kindness to us in troubling times. Dawn will forever be in our thoughts and prayers as well as your family. Dennis & Kathy Wotchko

    I remember spending the night with Sandy when we were young. Dawn was always ready to snack and chat. She was a great mom to have when away from home.
    You will be missed.

    John, Rob and families – Sorry to have missed Dawn’s service and visitation. Especially since our clans have been closely connected throughout our lifetimes. But, I was hospitalized at the time. I am truly sorrow about your loss and know that she is at peace with our Maker. In Christian love, Bill

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