Dana Joan Holtgraewe

Dana Joan Holtgraewe, 70, passed away peacefully on March 7, 2026, after a courageous battle with cancer.

Born on June 15, 1955, in Fort Belvoir, Virginia, Dana moved with her family to Lebanon, Tennessee, in 1998. She and her beloved husband, Brian Holtgraewe, built and ran a family business for more than 20 years, a legacy their son Austin proudly continues today. The couple shared a beautiful life together and would have celebrated their 38th wedding anniversary this year. Brian preceded her in death on March 5, 2020.

Dana found joy in life’s simple pleasures. She loved capturing special moments with her camera and looked forward to her annual scrapbooking trips. An avid traveler, she explored new places with family and friends, fulfilling a lifelong dream last May when she visited Italy with her daughter Megan. She enjoyed experimenting with new recipes in the kitchen and hosting Sunday family dinners, and she found peace outdoors, whether relaxing by the beach or kayaking on the Caney River. In retirement, she cherished every moment spent with her family, especially her grandchildren, who brought her endless joy. She was especially grateful to have met her youngest grandson, Hayes, born earlier this year.

Dana was preceded in death by her father, David Ruse, stepfather, Richard Thompson, and father-in-law, Earl Holtgraewe. She is survived by her loving mother, Dorothy Thompson; mother-in-law, Audrey Holtgraewe; children, Dustin Hodges, Kyle (Amanda) Holtgraewe, Austin (Michelle) Holtgraewe, and Megan (Jake) Miller; and grandchildren, Madelynn Holtgraewe, Jameson Holtgraewe, and Hayes Miller. She is also survived by her brothers, David Austin (Cathy) Ruse, Doug (Dee Dee) Ruse, and Tom Thompson; sisters, Darcie (Dan) Rohlfing, Chrissy Thompson, and Tracy Thompson; brother-in-law, David (Penny) Holtgraewe; sisters-in-law, Diane (Perry) Fix and Sherri (Dave) Renfroe; and many nieces, nephews, extended family members, and dear friends.

She will be remembered as a cherished daughter, loving sister, devoted wife, proud mother and grandmother, and loyal friend whose warmth, strength, persistent faith, and kindness touched everyone around her. Her vibrant spirit lives on in the family she loved so deeply.