Kay Cabanaw

Kay Cabanaw

August 9, 1947- July 7, 2026

If you were lucky enough to know Kay, you know just how magnetic she was. She had an indelible laugh, a lightning-fast wit, and she never met a stranger. A quick trip to Meijer was never quick. The Avon lady was invited to Thanksgiving dinner, and the neighborhood knew her by her red car, red hair, and friendly wave.

Kay noticed everyone, and everyone noticed Kay. She loved dogs, muscle cars, raspberry red, chocolate, and shopping, but most of all, she loved her family and friends.

For those of us lucky enough to spend our lives with and around her, the loss is immeasurable.

Kay was also proud of her years at NIPSCO, where she was a dedicated union member and formed friendships that lasted a lifetime.

Kay (Rosalyn) was born in Decatur, IL, to William and Dorothy Lipka, their only child. In 1963, she welcomed her daughter, Barbara (Michael), into the world. In 1969, she married the love of her life, Bill.  Kay adored her three grandchildren: Trina (Robert), Nicolas (Elizabeth) and Sheree. Her eight great grandchildren kept her on her toes: William, Irie, Lillian, Amari, Hannah, Lucy, Mazey, and Jack. And how could we forget: Howie.

She was preceded in death by her parents, countless German Shepherds she loved over the years, and her beloved boys, Blues, Tiger, Winston and Jax.

In her honor, the family asks that people volunteer their time in a nursing home, pass out candy on Halloween, pet all the dogs, and strike up a conversation with a stranger. 

A visitation for Kay will be held on Tuesday, July 14, 2026 at the Kaniewski Funeral Home from 10:00 am until 1:00 pm. A Catholic funeral service will take place at 1:00 pm. Burial will follow at Highland Cemetery. Memorial contributions may be made to the South Bend Animal Resource Center,521 Eclipse Pl, South Bend, IN 46628 in Kay’s honor.

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