Dawn Schaaf Obituary

Dawn M. Schaaf

Dawn M. Schaaf, 45, of Tiffin, passed away peacefully while surrounded by her daughters, husband, parents and aunt Friday, August 15, 2025, after a courageous five-year battle with metastatic breast cancer.

She was born October 5, 1979, to Paul J. Lucius Jr. and Ann M. (Bickley) Lucius of Tiffin.

Dawn is survived by her devoted husband, Jacob E. Schaaf (son of James A. and Judith A. Schaaf of Attica), and their two beloved daughters, Adalyn and Myla, who were the light of her life. She also leaves behind her brother, Joseph A. (Sabrina) Lucius of Kansas, and her pets, Zelda, Sunny, Thunder, Maybelle, and Mickey.

Dawn dedicated more than 20 years to her career in special education, where her compassion and patience touched countless young lives. She had a special gift for connecting with her students, finding joy in their daily greetings and milestones, even during her own fight with cancer. To colleagues, families, and especially her students, she was more than a teacher-she was a source of strength, kindness, and encouragement.

Beyond her work, Dawn cherished making memories with her daughters and husband. She loved family vacations to Disney and Northern Michigan, shopping trips with her girls, and time spent with extended family. Her laughter, warm spirit, and resilience will forever be remembered by all who knew her.

Her favorite colors were orange and pink, and the family encourages visitors to incorporate these colors as a celebration of Dawn's vibrant life.

Visitation will be from 2-6 p.m. Friday, August 22, 2025, at Hoffman-Gottfried-Mack Funeral Home & Crematory, 236 S. Washington St., Tiffin, Ohio 44883, (419) 447-2424.

Her funeral service will begin at 10 a.m. Saturday, August 23, 2025, at First Lutheran Church of Tiffin, with burial to follow at Greenlawn Cemetery, Tiffin.

In lieu of flowers, the family asks that memorial contributions be made to Cleveland Clinic in support of cancer research, in memory of Dawn Schaaf.

Dawn's legacy lives on in her family, her students, and the community she touched. She will be remembered as a devoted wife, loving mother, faithful daughter and sister, and a true warrior whose kindness and courage inspired all who knew her.

Condolences may be sent, and guestbook signed at www.hgmackfuneralhome.com.