Constance "Connie" J. Runnels

Constance "Connie" June Runnels passed away on Wednesday, February 25, 2026, at the Raclin House in Mishawaka, at the age of 79. Connie was born on April 23, 1946, in Providence, Rhode Island to the late Benjamin and Miriam (Hartman) Kesler. Connie had 6 brothers and every one of them had a sister. She grew up in New Paris, IN and graduated from New Paris High School in 1964. Connie attended beauty school and maintained her cosmetology license all her life. In 1970 she married David Runnels in New Paris. The couple welcomed three children. Surviving are her daughters Sheila Dodd (of Osceola), Karen (John) Jones (of Mishawaka), and son Bruce (Shannon) Runnels (of Granger), along with 8 grandchildren, 3 great-grandchildren, and her 5 brothers (Ken, Steve, Stan, Rick and Dennis Kesler). She was preceded in death by her parents, her husband David and her brother Jim Kesler.

Connie was a faithful servant, who loved others in practical ways, through offering childcare, house cleaning, lawn care, in-home health care and friendship. Connie was a gardener and was happiest being outside working in the yard. She enjoyed volunteering her time to maintain flower beds at her local church, where she was a faithful member and active participant. Connie was an excellent baker and was known for sharing her homemade treats with friends and family. She was also a talented seamstress, having made her own wedding dress and those of her daughters. Her family will miss her easy smile and big hugs... and the noodles and pumpkin pies she brought to all family gatherings.

The family will receive friends on Sunday March 1 from 2-5 pm at Cruz Family Funeral Home, Osceola and one hour prior to the 11:00 am funeral on Monday March 2 at Cruz Family Funeral Home, Osceola. Interment will follow at Chapel Hill Memorial Gardens, Osceola.

The family would like to thank the staff at the Rehab Hospital of Northern Indiana, Briarcliff Health and Rehab Center, Memorial Hospital ICU, and the Center for Hospice Care for their excellent care and love shown to Connie in her last days.

In her memory, gifts can be given to the Center for Hospice Care at 501 Comfort Place, Mishawaka, IN 46545. To light a virtual candle, share a story of Connie’s life, or extend a message of comfort, please visit the Guestbook.