Dawn Marie Poulos Elder entered this world on July 27, 1958, bringing joy to her family as she joined her older brother Christopher. Soon after, she welcomed two more siblings, Valerie and Sharon.

The Poulos home in Toledo, Ohio, was never dull—a lively place filled with kids, animals, friends, and family. Dawn's parents, Margaret and Albert, worked hard to provide their children with the best opportunities, including a Catholic school education at Regina Coeli.

Dawn was a proud graduate of Start High School, and while her journey took her far from Toledo, she always carried a piece of home with her.

She loved vacationing back home in Ohio, especially at Put-in-Bay, a place close to her heart, as her father, Al, once owned Castle Inn there.

From an early age, Dawn was a dreamer with a deep love for fashion, adventure, and, most of all, animals—especially dogs. Though she never had children of her own, she showered love and generosity on those around her, often giving beyond her means, a trait she lovingly inherited from her mother.

Dawn spent her early years in Toledo and a short time in Florida before her adventurous spirit led her to the desert Southwest. She ultimately made her home in Woodward, Oklahoma, where she fulfilled her lifelong dream of living in a small-town community surrounded by dogs and horses. She never went anywhere without her beloved dog and sidekick, Wrangler.

In Woodward, Dawn became known for the grooming business she built from the ground up, Pampered Paws. She poured her heart into her work, caring for the beloved pets of Northwest Oklahoma from sunup to sundown. Fueled by her love of animals, country music, laughter, and a steady supply of nicotine, she made an unforgettable impact on her clients and friends. Her love for country music took her to countless concerts, where she met many of her favorite artists—memories she loved sharing with those closest to her.

Dawn was a force of nature, always the life of the party, with a hearty laugh that could light up any room. She left us too soon on March 4, 2025, leaving behind a legacy of love, laughter, and generosity.

She is survived by many beloved nieces and nephews, including Erica and Raelee, along with their families. She is also deeply missed by her former partner, LeeJay, as well as her extended family from Kansas and Missouri, including her uncle Bob, aunt Judy, and many others who loved her dearly. Along with so many special friends.

Her love, laughter, and unwavering spirit will be dearly missed but never forgotten.