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Dawn Denise Wolfe Mandalas of Dover, DE, passed away peacefully on Saturday, November 29, 2025 surrounded by her family, after a courageous battle with cancer. She was born June 10, 1969 in Saratoga Springs, NY. Daughter of
Dawn Denise Wolfe Mandalas, 56Douglas Wolfe and Phyllis Faes of Smethport, PA.
Dawn was the loving mother of Nikolas, Lillian, and Christopher Mandalas, all of DE, who were her source of pride and strength. She leaves behind a legacy of love, resilience, and encouragement that will continue to live on through them. She is also survived by her mother, Phyllis Faes, Stepfather, Robert Faes, brother, Christopher Wolfe, several nieces and nephews and great nieces and nephews. Dawn was proceeded in passing by her father, Douglas Wolfe and maternal and paternal grandparents.
Dawn was a graduate of Smethport Area High School, class of 1987, Penn State University, PA, and Wright State University, OH. She devoted her life to educating, inspiring, and uplifting the children of her community. A beloved schoolteacher for many years, she touched countless young lives with her patience, compassion and unwavering belief in the potential of every student who walked into her classroom.
Outside the classroom, Dawn shared her love of creativity and performance through her longtime involvement with the Children’s Theatre in Dover. Whether directing, choreographing dance, organizing or encouraging young actors during rehearsals, she brought joy, imagination, and confidence to the stage—qualities that her students and peers will remember fondly.
She was also a dedicated coach for multiple Odyssey of the Mind teams, guiding her students with enthusiasm and kindness. Her teams thrived under her leadership, finding not only success in competition but also a deeper appreciation for teamwork, curiosity, and creative problem solving.
Dawn will be greatly missed by many special friends and co-workers. She made an impact on so many in her life.
A celebration of Dawn’s life will be held on Sunday, December 7, 2025, with visitation at 1:00 p.m. and service to follow at 2 p.m., at Avenue United Methodist Church, 20 N. Church Street, Milford, DE 19963.
In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made to the Delaware Breast Cancer Coalition in her memory.
