Dawn Emily McManus

Dawn Emily McManus, née Zeman, passed away on September 29, 2026, in Delavan, Wisconsin. She was born on April 18, 1961, in Berwyn, Illinois, and lived a life marked by learning, service, and devotion to those she loved.

Dawn graduated from Wheaton Warrenville South High School in 1979 and went on to earn her B.A. from North Central College in Naperville in 1986. She brought her love of books, knowledge, and community to her work as a librarian at the Barrett Memorial Library in Williams Bay, Wisconsin. In that role, she offered both guidance and welcome, sharing the quiet gifts of patience, care, and understanding that define a life of service.

Her generosity also reached far beyond her work. From 1987 until 2007, Dawn volunteered at Ribfest in Naperville, giving her time faithfully over many years. She also loved dogs, and that affection reflected the warmth and tenderness that were so much a part of her nature.

Above all, Dawn will be remembered within the circle of her family, where her presence was a lasting source of love. She is survived by her husband, Michael McManus; her step sons, Brian McManus and Keith McManus, and Keith’s wife, Katie McManus; her grandson, Finn; and her sister, Gail Ranzulla, and Gail’s husband, Sam Ranzulla and her nephews Brian Zeman, his three children and Kevin Zeman and Kevin's wife Lindsey and their two sons. In each of these relationships, she leaves behind memories of companionship, care, and enduring affection that will continue to be cherished.

She was preceded in death by her father, Albert Zeman; her mother, Loretta Zeman; and her brother, Glen.

Dawn’s life was one of steady kindness, commitment, and heart. She will be deeply missed and lovingly remembered by all who knew her.

Services for Dawn will be held on Thursday October 8th, 2026  at St. Benedict's Catholic Church in Fontana, Wisconsin at 11:00am.  Visitation will be held on Wednesday October 7th from 5:00pm till 8:00pm at Derrick Funeral Home in Lake Geneva, Wisconsin.  There will be a prayer service held at 7:30pm the night of the visitation at the Funeral Home. Private family burial will be held at a later date.

Donations can be made in Dawn's name to the American Diabetes Foundation.

To share a memory of your time with Dawn, or to post a condolence to the family, please proceed to the bottom of the obituary under Guest Book where you can submit your post.

Derrick Funeral Home of Lake Geneva is honored to be assisting the family.