Dawn Marie Grosswiler, 70

It is with deep heartbreak that we share that Dawn Marie (Thienes) Grosswiler, 70, passed away suddenly on March 19, 2026, in her home in Cut Bank.

Dawn was born on Jan. 25, 1956, in Minneapolis, Minnesota, to Marcy and John Thienes. She grew up alongside her three brothers, Danny, Brian and John, and her two sisters, Cheryl and Cindy. In 1968, her family relocated to Dayton. Montana remained her home for the rest of her life, living in Kalispell, Kila, and Cut Bank.

Strong, independent, and full of determination, Dawn set out early to build a life of her own. She began her career in waitressing at a young age and became a beloved fixture at Tiebuckers Restaurant, where she worked for over 20 years. There, she formed lifelong friendships and cherished her monthly "Ladies Lunch" gatherings.

Her heart found purpose with the birth of her first son, Chris, in 1984. She later met the love of her life, Joe Grosswiler, and they were married on March 24, 1990. Together, they raised four sons — Chris, Nolan, Jeremy and Kevin — and built a family that became Dawn’s greatest legacy. Dawn and Joe also welcomed a daughter, Melissa, who passed away at three weeks old. In this time of grief, there is comfort in knowing that Dawn is now holding her again.

Perhaps the greatest joy of Dawn’s life was becoming "Gigi" to Vale and Willa and "Grandma" to Declan who knew deeply how loved they were.

Dawn had a gift for making life beautiful. She was an exceptional gardener, a creative and adventurous cook, and effortlessly stylish. She loved cheesy Hallmark movies, traveling — especially to warmer climates — and attending concerts with Joe. She enjoyed a good glass of wine, but above all, she loved her boys and her grandchildren with her whole heart. In every room she entered, Dawn left it warmer than she found it.

She is survived by her loving husband, Joe Grosswiler; her sons, Chris Arnold (Katrina), Nolan (Ellen and Declan), Jeremy (Katie, Vale and Willa), and Kevin (Kylie); and her siblings, Cheryl, Danny, Cindy, Brian and John; and countless friends whose lives are richer for having known her.

Dawn was preceded in death by her parents, Marcy and John Thienes; her sweet daughter, Melissa Dawn Grosswiler; and her brother, Christopher Paul Thienes.

Dawn is gone far too soon, and those who loved her will miss her dearly for the rest of their lives.

There will be a celebration of life hosted by Julie Smith on June 13 from 2-5 p.m. at 1885 Browns Meadow Road in Kila.