Dawn Marie Karas O'Shea

1953 - 2024

"Mama Dawn" went home to our Lord on September 29, 2024. She passed peacefully in the arms of her husband at their home in Luther, MT. She was 71 years old.

Dawn was born on March 4, 1953 in Denver, CO to Benjamin and Phyllis Karas. As a family medicine physician, her father moved their family to Red Lodge, MT when Dawn was a young girl. Dawn, the oldest of five children, was often seen shepherding her siblings around town. Dawn attended Red Lodge High School (1971) where she met her husband, Michael O'Shea. Dawn and Michael settled in Luther, MT on the O'Shea family ranch where they raised three sons: Joshua, Austin, and Benjamin "Bo". Dawn worked in the Red Lodge Clinic with her father, at a law office as a legal secretary, and at the Grizzly Bar as everyone's favorite waitress. Dawn's true joy was being a mother and working alongside her husband on the family ranch. Dawn was Michael's right hand, and her skill, strength, and grit are admirable. Dawn was an amazing mom who ensured her sons had educational and cultural opportunities to balance their ranch upbringing.

Dawn was a devoted wife, mother, mother-in-law, grandmother, sister, aunt, and friend. Dawn's smile made everyone she met feel welcome and loved. She was most happy when her boys and their families were gathered around her kitchen island.

Dawn is survived by her husband, Michael O'Shea; sons, Joshua O'Shea, Austin O'Shea (Danielle), and Benjamin "Bo" O'Shea (Bekah); grandchildren, Isaac, Anna Kate, Mick, Jameson, Isla, and Henry; great grandchild, Etta Mae; brother, William Karas (Margaret); sister, Stacey Lane (Todd); and numerous nieces and nephews. Dawn is proceeded in death by her parents, Benjamin and Phyllis Karas; and her sisters, Debra Darland and Dannielle Kendall.

A memorial service and reception will be held in Dawn's honor on Saturday, October 19, 2024 at 1:00 pm at the Grizzly Bar in Roscoe, MT.