We are profoundly saddened to share that our cherished mother, sister, grandmother and friend Dawna Carpenter, age 76, of Rice Lake, WI, died Thursday, March 24, 2022 with her family and friends surrounding her and loving her through her transition.

She was born on January 22, 1946 in Rice Lake to Forrest and Jean (Orlady) Nutter.

Dawna attended school in Rice Lake and then attended two year Barron County teachers college, and later received her Masters from River Falls. She taught in the districts of Glenwood City, Chetek and finished her over 30 year teaching career in Cameron School District where she was loved beyond measure. Dawna was one of the finest teachers, and extraordinary human beings who loved her time with friends and family as well as her spoiled dog Ruby and (just as spoiled) cat Thelma. She was surrounded by former students wherever she went who would seek her out bringing a smile to her face whenever she saw them. Forever the advocate for the underdog, you will be hard pressed to find a more kind, compassionate woman. She made you feel that you were the only one in the world when she was talking to you. The world has lost someone special with her passing.

She is survived by her beloved son Joshua (Melanne) Carpenter, her siblings; Forrest (Jeanne) Nutter, Heather (Bruce) Anderson, Kevin (Sue) Nutter, Shannon Nutter, Erin “Teko” Nutter. Grandchild Hilary (Chris) Jump, Great grandchild Osric; many nieces and nephews; Godchild Shane (wife Michelle, son Jack) Larson; her dog Ruby as well as her cat Thelma.

She was preceded in death by her husband Lou, her canine friends Enya, Wyatt, and Holly.

A celebration of life will be held from 1- 4PM Sunday, April 10, 2022 at Lehman's Supper Club in Rice Lake, with a time of remembrance and prayer at 2PM.

Appleyard’s Home for Funerals in Rice Lake, WI is in charge of services. In lieu of flowers, a Dawna Carpenter Scholarship Fund will be set up and presented to a student who will be pursuing a degree in the field of Education.

Last Update: Mar 30, 2022 7:36 am CDT