Dawn Melody (Nielsen) Terry, age 64, of River Falls, died unexpectedly on October 2, 2021 at Regions Hospital. Dawn was born on May 16, 1957 in River Falls, WI to Merle and Donna (Bradshaw) Nielsen. She graduated from River Falls High School with the class of 1976. Dawn’s life was blessed with four children. She married the love of her life, Kemp Terry Jr. on December 4, 1989.

Dawn lived life to the fullest. She enjoyed traveling across the United States, whether it was in their semi-truck, pick-up truck or on their motorcycle, Dawn was always up for an adventure. She had a passion for metal detecting, going to the NHRA Drag races and traveling the USA seeing historical sites. She loved being with her family. Her grandkids were her world. She loved every moment with them. She loved to winter down in Brackettville, TX at Fort Clark Springs. While down there she was always restoring antique things, and spending time with her mom, Donna. Dawn and Kemp were active members of the GWRRA Motorcycle Association. Dawn was loved by so many and blessed with friendships around the world. She will be missed by everyone.

Dawn is survived by her mother, Donna Pritzel; stepmom, Maxine Nielsen; husband, Kemp Terry Jr.; siblings, Echo (Steve) Kraft, Matt (Angie) Nielsen, Mike (Barb) Fisher, Diane Fisher, Tom (Vickie) Fisher; children, Rusty (Noelle) Ridlon, Shana Lee (Joe) Whiting, Kt (Amber Schaffor Lyons) Terry; 19 grandkids and 3 great grandchildren; aunts, uncles, many nieces, nephews and cousins. Dawn is preceded in death by her father, Merle Nielsen; stepfather, Duane Pritzel; son, Wesley Ridlon; and sister, Teddi Bauer; and many other loved ones who were near and dear to her heart.

A Visitation for Dawn will be held at 12:00 (noon) to 4:00pm, October 9, 2021, at O’Connell Family Funeral Home in River falls. A Memorial Service will be held at 4:00pm. A private burial will take place at Greenwood Cemetery in River Falls.

Arrangements are entrusted to O’Connell Family Funeral Home of River Falls, WI, 715-273-4421.