Collette Cabanaw

Collette Cabanaw, 69, passed away peacefully in her home in Mishawaka, Indiana on April 16, 2026. Born on January 22, 1957, Collette lived a life filled with love, kindness, and devotion to her family.

As a baker, she possessed a special talent for creating things that brought people together. Her greatest joy, however, was her family. She was a loving and caring mother, grandmother, and sister who always put her loved ones first.

She is survived by her two children, Tanicka Smith and Ryan Cabanaw; her brother, Alfred Mathes and his wife Rebecca Mathes; and her nine cherished grandchildren: Gabrielle Smith, Jason Smith, Chanse Calhoun, Gracie Calhoun, Athena Blad, Millennia Brown, JayLynn Cabanaw, Nevaeh Cabanaw, and Ryan Cabanaw Jr. She was preceded in death by her brother, Jeff Mathes.

She will be deeply missed by all who knew her.

A celebration of Collette’s life will be held at a later date. Cruz Family Funeral Home and Cremation Service of Osceola has been entrusted with her care.

To light a virtual candle, share a story of Collette’s life, or leave a message of comfort for her family, please follow the links provided on the Guestbook tab above.

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