Dawn Renee Castorena

Dawn R. Castorena, 59, of Independence, Kansas, left this world on December 10, 2025. She was born on March 29, 1966, and spent her life in Independence, where she lovingly raised her family, worked diligently, and built countless meaningful friendships.

Dawn worked as a supervisor at Catalytic and took great pride in her work. She was known for her spunky, outspoken personality, her kindness, and her big heart. She loved being outdoors, whether camping, fishing, gardening, or caring for her animals—and found joy in the simple pleasures of life. Dawn was a longtime member of both the VFW and the American Legion, where she cherished community and lifelong friendships.

Family was the heart of Dawn’s life. She is survived by her loving husband, Patrick Clark; her children, Nathan Clark, Donlie Keath (Karlie), Jessica Cooley (Gordon), and Daphanie Scott (Michael); her brothers, James Millar (Shari) and John Teehee (Angela); her sisters, Karen Oliver (Bryan) and Jennifer Collier (Donny); and her beloved grandchildren, Haily, Annie, Calliope, Micala, Jerry II, Jesse, Jedidiah, Dorothy, Josiah, Jabel, Abigail, Noah, Esmae, Carrie, Serenide, and Haylie, who brought her endless joy.

She was preceded in death by her father, Fred Royce and her mother Norma Teehee; her sisters, Cherie Barnes and Elizabeth Ann Valade (Joseph); and her daughter, Carrisa Castorena. Though her absence will be deeply felt, the love, laughter, and cherished memories she shared with family and friends will live on in the hearts of all who knew her.

Visitation will be held on Monday, December 15, 2025, from 5:00–7:00 p.m. at Webb & Rodrick Chapel, with family present to greet friends. Graveside services will be held on Tuesday, December 16, 2025, at 11:00 a.m. at Peru Cemetery. Family and friends are invited to come together to celebrate Dawn’s life, share memories, and honor the remarkable woman she was. Funeral arrangements are under the care of Webb and Rodrick Chapel.