Dawn Rebecca Wendling passed away on January 18, 2026 in Colorado Springs surrounded by family.

Dawn was born May 5, 1960 in Champaign, IL to Merlan and Elsie Johnson. She was the youngest of three children and the only daughter, having two older brothers. She and Jeffrey Wendling married in June 1978 after meeting in high school; the definition of high school sweethearts. After they married, Jeff’s career in the Air Force took them to Indiana, where they welcomed two children, and eventually to Colorado Springs which they made Home.

Dawn spent many years as a veterinary technician and working in the pet industry, often helping people after hours with a question or a sick pet. She enjoyed attending and serving at Church For All Nations, cooking for and hosting friends and family in her home, and attending car meets and events with Jeff.

Dawn is preceded in death by her mother and father and a brother, Dean Johnson. She is also predeceased by her mother and father-in-law, Delma and Clarence Wendling, as well as a nephew, Jared Gossage.

She is survived by her husband of 47 years, Jeff, a son Michael (Diana) Wendling, daughter Kari Wendling, brother Dale (Karen) Johnson, sister-in-law Darcy Johnson, Jeff’s sister Janet (G) Garrett and numerous nieces and nephews.

The memorial service for Dawn Wendling will be Thursday, February 12th at 11am at Church For All Nations: 6560 Tutt Blvd, Colorado Springs, CO 80923. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made in her memory to Church For All Nations or the Humane Society of the Pikes Peak Region.