Dawn Michelle Provance, 51, of Chadron, Nebraska, left this world in the early hours of October 22, 2024, after bravely battling cancer throughout her life. Dawn’s strength, resilience, and deep love for her family and community left an indelible mark on those who knew her. Although our hearts are heavy, we find solace in knowing she is now at peace.
Dawn was born on September 21, 1973, in Wichita Falls, Texas, the eldest of three daughters to Robert and Kim Winberg. At just 13 years old, she was diagnosed with Hodgkin’s disease, a challenge she faced and overcame, becoming a survivor in 1989. Dawn graduated from Westside High School in Omaha, Nebraska, in 1992, and went on to complete her radiology training at MeritCare School of Radiology in Fargo, North Dakota, in 1997. Adventurous at heart, Dawn became a traveling radiologic technologist, checking off destinations on her bucket list and embracing new places with open arms.
In 2000, Dawn met her soulmate, Michael Provance, and they quickly recognized they wanted a lifetime together. They married in Chadron, Nebraska, on October 26, 2001, and welcomed their son, Xander, on June 26, 2004. That same year, Dawn conquered breast cancer, embodying her incredible resilience. With her health restored, she embraced her roles as a devoted mother and wife. Dawn took immense joy in watching Xander excel in his many sports, sharing his accomplishments with pride, especially when he chose to run track for University South Dakota—forever his biggest fan.
Dawn’s warm smile and compassionate spirit endeared her to everyone she met. She started a book club, cherished coffee dates and wine nights with friends, and never missed a chance for a heartfelt late-night call with family. Planning trips, both for herself and for others, was a passion; if you had the fortune of joining her on one, you were in for an unforgettable experience. Her kindness, laughter, and zest for life touched the lives of many, leaving a legacy of friendship and love.
She is survived by her husband of 23 years, Michael Provance; her beloved son, Xander Provance; her mother, Kim Winberg; her grandmothers, Eileen Etterman and Mary Winberg; and her sisters, Jenell (Jason) Anderson and Betsy Westphal. She also leaves behind mother-in-law Thelma Provance; sisters-in-law Valorie (Robert) Cowan and Nanette (Scott) Swanson; cherished nieces and nephews: Leah (Tucker) Lane, Sydney Westphal, Jacob Ewing, Jace Westphal, Grace Anderson, Chad (Amy) Cowan, Jeremy Cowan and Stephanie (Aaron) Roach and great nieces and nephews Mason, Brianna, Adrian, Blake, Boston and Aspyn.
Dawn was preceded in death by her father, Robert “Bob” Winberg; her grandfathers, Richard “Rick” Etterman and William “Bill” Winberg; her cousin, Derek Gordon and her father-in-law Larry Provance.
A celebration of Dawn’s life will be held on Saturday, November 9, 2024, at 11:00 am at Memorial Hall on the Chadron State College Campus. In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be given to the Circle of Light in Dawn’s name. Fond memories and condolences may be left at http://www.dugankramer.com for the Provance family.
In Dawn’s honor, her family invites you to embrace life’s joys, as she always did. Do something that brings you happiness, and share it with those around you.