Dawn Lee Cocanower

Dawn Lee Cocanower, 60, of Osceola, passed away unexpectedly on September 29, 2025, surrounded by her loving family.
Born on April 4, 1965, in South Bend, Indiana, Dawn was the daughter of David Lee Cocanower and the late Barbara Ann (Murphy) Cocanower. She was also preceded in death by a brother, David Lee.
A proud graduate of Penn High School, Class of 1983, Dawn later continued her education at Bethel College in the late 2000s-a testament to her lifelong curiosity and drive for growth.
Above all, Dawn cherished her role as a mother and grandmother. Her three daughters were the light of her life, and her greatest joy came from spending time with her beloved grandchildren. She was a devoted member of St. Pius X Catholic Church in Granger, where she found strength and community.
Dawn had a deep love for nature and animals, particularly frogs, turtles, and birds-including her loving dogs Junior, Elsa; grandpups Gus Gus, Gunner, Dash and Stella. and found peace in time spent at the beach. A spirited sports fan, she proudly cheered for the Chicago Cubs, the Memphis Grizzlies, and the Jacksonville Jaguars, much to the playful dismay of her father.
Dawn was a dedicated and compassionate employee at BABSCO in Elkhart, where her warmth, loyalty, and sincerity left a lasting impression on all who worked with her. She wore her heart on her sleeve and extended kindness wherever she went.
Dawn is survived by her loving daughters: Tasha (James) Jones, Mikayla (Logan) Manning, and Kelsey Cartwright; her cherished grandchildren, Ryan and Stevie; her sister, Gina (Kent) Fleener; and her nieces and nephews: Matthew (Kim) Green, Josh Cocanower, and Grace Cocanower. She also leaves behind her great-nieces and nephews: Brooklyn, Parker, Kareighnton, Brody, and Finnley, a sister-in-law, Kerry Lee, a boyfriend John Podemski Jr., along with many treasured friends and extended family.
The family will receive friends on Friday, October 3, 2025, at St. Pius X Catholic Church in Granger, Indiana. Visitation will begin at 9:30 AM, followed by a Mass of Christian Burial at 10:30 AM with Father Andy Barnes officiating. A private memorial internment will follow at a later date, at Chapel Hill Memorial Gardens, Osceola, IN 46561.
Above all else, Dawn was truly remarkable. Her kindness, generosity, and unwavering spirit touched everyone, fortunate enough to know her. She had a way of making people feel seen, valued, and loved; leaving behind not only memories but a lasting impact that will continue to inspire all who carry her story forward. Dawn's warmth, laughter, and unwavering love will be deeply missed and forever remembered.
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