Dawn L. (Mesecher) Smith, 51, Salina, died Wednesday, February 25, 2026, at the Salina Regional Health Center. Dawn was born June 16, 1974, in Salina, to Mark and Donalea (Yowell) Mesecher.

She was a 1992 graduate of Minneapolis High School. She had a deep love of art, music, and food. The River Festival was her jam! She served on the food committee for several years and became friends with many of the vendors. Dawn was tenacious and passionate about any cause she felt was worthy. Her two daughters were the light of her life.

Dawn was preceded in death by her father, Mark.

Survivors are her mother and stepfather, Doni and Fred Michels; daughters, Jordan (Jillian) and Emma (Evan); former husband and friend, Tom Smith; siblings, Mark Jr, Josh, and Kelsey; and grandfather, Donald Yowell.

A celebration of Dawn’s life will be held at a later date.