Juliane Bonansinga

Juliane Bonansinga, born March 27th, 1943, in Springfield, Illinois, passed peacefully in Mishawaka, Indiana on February 2nd, 2026, surrounded by loved ones.

Juliane was the daughter of Celia and Nicholas Bonansinga. She grew up and lived much of her early life in Springfield and was affectionately called “Cookie” by close family. Throughout her life she lived in many parts of the country including Muskegon, Michigan, Athens, Georgia, Avon Lake, Ohio, Southern California and The Villages in Florida. No matter where she called home, Juliane built meaningful friendships and left lasting impressions with her warmth and gracious spirit.

She dedicated her professional life to caring for others, working both as a nurse and later as a real estate agent. Her compassion, energy, and genuine interest in people defined both her career and her personal life.

Juliane, also known as “Julie”, loved to travel, play tennis and spend time with friends and family. When there was music, you would always find her on the dance floor. She carried a loving spirit and joyful energy that touched everyone she met. Her beautiful smile, kindness, and zest for life will be deeply missed.

She is survived by two daughters: Lyrin Kanczuzewski of South Bend, IN, Lori (Paul) Fisher of Lewisville, TX, son, Todd (Sara) Russell of Buchanan, MI and sister-in-law Helen Bonansinga of Livonia, MI.

Lovingly remembered as “Mamie”, she will be missed by her grandchildren: T.J. (Julia) Kanczuzewski, Ashley (Chris) Brickley, Nicole Russell, Nicholas (Elizabeth) Kanczuzewski, Lyrin Russell, Tyler Kanczuzewski, Benton Fisher and Elizabeth (Christopher) Juneau.

Another joy in her life were ten great-grandchildren: Brynn, Gracie, John, Nolan, Ella, Mara, Makena, Nora, Jessica and Nicole. Her niece Christine Bonansinga-Calleja and nephews Rick and Michael Crain always had a warm place in her heart.

Juliane was preceded in death by her sister, Mary Carole (Charlie) Crain, her brother, Nicholas Patrick Bonansinga, son-in-law Thomas Kanczuzewski and nephew Tony Crain.

Her legacy lives on through the many lives she touched and the family she cherished so deeply. She will be remembered for the way she made everyone feel welcome.

The family would like to express their love and gratitude to all the caregivers who helped in her final years.

A burial is planned at Calvary Cemetery in Springfield, IL, next to her parents. A celebration of life will be announced by the family at a later date.

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