Dawn M. Schwefel

1952 - 2025

Watertown, WI - Dawn M. Schwefel, 72, of Watertown, passed away on July 5, 2025, at Park Ridge Assisted Living.

Dawn Marie Schwefel was born to Clarence and Phyllis (Appenfeldt) Bartz on September 8, 1952. She was a 1966 graduate of St. John's Lutheran School and a 1970 graduate of Watertown High School. She also attended Madison College, obtaining three certificates for Office Assistant and other courses.

On April 29, 1978, Dawn married Samson Otto Schwefel at Immanuel Lutheran Church in Lebanon. Sam and Dawn shared 39 wonderful years together until May 4, 2017, when Sam died.

Dawn and Sam were blessed with two wonderful daughters, Megan Schwefel of Watertown and Mary Klein of Lake Mills. Also surviving are her son-in-law, Chris Klein, and two of the best grandchildren anyone could ask for, Aaron Klein and Aubrey Klein. We loved those kids to the moon and back.

Also surviving from Dawn's family are brothers Daniel (Vicki) Bartz, Donavon (Barbara) Bartz, and Drew Bartz; and sister De Anna Groh, along with nieces, nephews, and other relatives and friends. Dawn is further survived by sister- and brother-in-law, Helen and Bill Pugh.

Dawn was preceded in death by her husband of 39 years, Samson Schwefel; her parents; her mother- and father-in-law; two brothers-in-law, Richard Schwefel and Michael Groh; and other relatives and friends.

Dawn was a member and past president of VFW Aux. 3709, Watertown, and was a member of the Watertown Community and Senior Center. Dawn also did a lot of volunteering at Marquardt Village, where she called bingo for many events. She also represented Park Hill on the Campus Council at Marquardt Village. She was a member of the Watertown Ladies Bowling Association and bowled for years in the Moonliters league.

Dawn's wishes were to be cremated, and her ashes are to be placed by her husband, Sam. Memorial services will be held on Thursday, July 10, 2025, at 4 p.m. at Marquardt Health Center with Rev. Ray Bezanson officiating. Family and friends may gather at Marquardt Health Center Chapel from 2 p.m. until the time of the service. Memorials, if desired, may be directed to the family. Funeral arrangements are being cared for by Hafemeister Funeral Home and Cremation Service. Online condolences may be made at www.hafemeisterfh.com.