Ishpeming – Dawne S. Champion, known to those who loved her as Putchie, of 403 E. Pearl St. Ishpeming, passed away Sunday March 22, 2009. She was 75 years old.

She was born October 21, 1933 in Negaunee to Frank and Doris (Tall) Gronvall. She was a graduate of Ishpeming High School, class of 1951. She attended the Trinity Lutheran Church in Ishpeming.

Putchie lived a life filled with family, friends, laughter and joy. Her many passions included art, poetry, and good books. She was a voracious reader and an accomplished amateur artist. Her favorite medium was oil paints. For the last 20 years she hosted a small art class in her home where talents and friendships flourished.

She is survived by her children: Robyn (Thomas) Lucas of Ishpeming, Janice (Mohamed) Hassan of Sugar Land, TX, and Kevin (Laura) Champion of Grand Rapids, MI; grandchildren: Kristen Lucas of Lincoln, NE, Kerry Lucas of Ishpeming, Deena, Maggie and Kyle Hassan all of Sugar Land, TX, Emily, Victoria and Kaley Champion all of Grand Rapids, MI, and a great-granddaughter Kendra Anderson of Ishpeming. She is also survived by her brothers Robin (Sharon) Gronvall and Frank (Marcia) Gronvall both of Ishpeming; 5 nieces and a nephew along with their families.


Putchie was preceded in death by her father Frank Gronvall, her mother Doris Johnson and an infant brother Dennis Gronvall. In 1993 death separated her from her husband, her love and her very best friend Kenneth Champion.


A memorial service will be held at 11:00AM on Thursday, March 26, 2009 at the Trinity Lutheran Church in Ishpeming with Reverend Kenneth Lahners officiating. Interment will take place at the Ishpeming Cemetery.

Friends and family may call at the Trinity Lutheran Church on Thursday, March 26, 2009 from 10:30AM until the time of the service.

Memorial considerations may be directed to the Trinity Lutheran Church 414 E Ridge St. Ishpeming, MI 49849 in memory of Dawne "Putchie" Champion.