Colleen L (Bice) Kubacki

In her home, with her daughter at her bedside, Colleen Kubacki passed away on March 27, 2024, ten days after her 94th birthday. We are certain that she was overjoyed to finally be reunited with her beloved family and friends that were waiting for her on the other side.

She was born to Leo and Rose Bice on March 17, 1930, and spent her entire life residing in Mishawaka. Colleen and Sylvester "Bud" Kubacki were united in marriage on December 30, 1950.  After her retirement from Uniroyal in 1988, she became a full-time Grandmother, a role that she cherished. Always available to babysit, attend school functions or cheer at sporting events, her grandchildren could always depend on Grandma Colleen's undivided attention! Colleen was happiest when she was with her family celebrating holidays, attending weddings, or just sitting at the kitchen table drinking coffee and laughing with her sisters. She also enjoyed getting together with other Uniroyal retired co-workers, as well as, visiting with classmates at the Mishawaka Alumni luncheons. She will be remembered for her sense of humor, the homemade sugar cookies that were always available to anyone that came into her kitchen and the photos of her grandchildren that she carried in her purse and was anxious to share whenever possible.

Her husband, Bud, passed away in 2011. Also, preceding her in death are her parents, Leo and Rose Bice; her brothers Don (Monica) Bice and Roger Bice: sisters Ninamae (Don) Paul and Rosemary (Ervin) Nowicki. Her youngest sister, Jayne Dregits (John) survives. Other survivors include her son Mark (Judi) Kubacki and daughter Lynn Amato. Also, grandchildren Kallie Fitzpatrick (CJ), Ryan Kubacki and Michael Amato.  Four great-grandchildren, and numerous nieces and nephews.  The family wishes to express their deepest appreciation for Colleen's home caretakers Kim, Julie, and Ellen. These wonderful women blessed us with the ability to keep Colleen in her home and we will be forever grateful for their dedication and hard work. Additionally, we want to thank the amazing staff from the Center for Hospice Care. Their expertise and warm, caring guidance gave us comfort during this difficult time.

 In her later years she enjoyed working in her yard, weeding. trimming and even mowing the lawn at 90 years old!

Colleen was deeply loved and will be forever missed.  A celebration of life will be planned for this summer. 

Memorial contributions may be made in Colleen’s honor to St. Monica’s Catholic Church, 222 W. Mishawaka Ave., Mishawaka, IN 46545, and or to The Center for Hospice, 501 Comfort Place, Mishawaka, IN 46545.

Palmer Funeral Homes ~ Bubb Chapel, 3910 North Main Street, Mishawaka, IN  46545 is assisting the family with arrangements.

To send flowers to the family, please visit our floral store.