Artist and retired elementary school teacher Dawn Tarpley’s love of life didn’t come to an end with her death. Dawn passed away on February 16 at the age of 66 after a hard-fought battle with cancer, surrounded by loved ones who will continue to honor her legacy by living their lives to the fullest.
Dawn completed her Bachelor’s degree at Northwest Missouri State University. After teaching for several years with the Union Star School District, she began her career at Walt Disney World as an Artist Prep. Dawn’s pride was in her work and friends, while sharing her passion for animals with all she encountered over the years.
The simplest pleasures in life brought great joy to Dawn. She loved a quiet evening at home with a good art project, or a night on the town with friends. During her time in Florida at Disney, Dawn would often entertain friends with shopping at local thrift shops, hosting “unique” dinner parties, exploring the theme parks, or even scaring the pants off folks by surprising them with a visit to Gatorland. She had an uncanny ability to find happiness in her daily activities. Her outgoing personality was contagious to everyone she met. Dawn is survived by her dogs; Andre & Aspen, brothers Dirk (Megen Tarpley) and Drake (Bev Tarpley), Nephews; Mason (Michaela Tarpley) and Zac. Dawn is and always will be loved by those that knew her.
A Celebration of Life will be held at a later date. Arrangements under the direction of Meierhoffer Funeral Home & Crematory.
