BRISTOL — Jeannine V. "Jeannie" Krause, 73, of Bristol, passed away unexpectedly on Friday, April 28, 2017, at Elkhart General Hospital.

She was born Sept. 28, 1943, in South Bend, to the late John and Elizabeth (Krupa) Marchelewicz.

Surviving are her children, Richard Krause Jr. of Bristol, Robert (Terri) Krause of Elkhart, Rochelle (Steve) Dibley of Bristol and Ronald (Robbie) Krause of Eagleville, Tennessee; grandchildren Steve Jr., Joe, Elizabeth, Abby, Kara, Amanda, Stacy, Nate, Lauren, Sarah, George, Alaina, Ellie, Sadie, and Donnie Dibley, Alex (Lyndsay Sheets) Zornig, and Alisa (Dave) Gura; great-grandchildren CJ Hernandez and Samson Gura; and former husband Richard Krause Sr.

Publicly, Jeannie spent nearly 20 years assisting the families of Elkhart County with Elkhart's CAPS (Child and Parent Services) program in multiple roles.

She was also a member of St. Mary's, the Polish Women's Alliance of America and Bristol American Legion Post 143.

Personally, she was a loving mother and strong, independent woman who always thought and did for others before herself.

Her heart and home was always open and she offered a careful ear and unconditional love. She was adventurous in trying new things and would always strive to accomplish any mission upon which she set forth.

As a mother, nothing made her happier than having all four of her children around her along with a good glass of wine. As a grandmother, she had great love and pride for each and every one of her grandchildren.

She shared her joy of giving through countless hand-made birthday cards, baby blankets, jellies, jams, coffee cakes and desserts. Compassionate, caring and resolved, Jeannie's greatest gift was her ability to make all who knew her feel valued and loved.

St. Mary of the Annunciation Catholic Church, 411 W. Vistula, Bristol, will host Jeannie's celebration of life services beginning with a viewing from 6-8 pm Wednesday, May 3. Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated at 11 a.m. Thursday, May 4, with visitation beginning at 10 a.m. The Rev. Robert Van Kempen will officiate and burial will follow in Oakridge Cemetery in Bristol.

Billings Funeral Home of Elkhart has been honored with assisting the family with the arrangements.

Memorial donations may be given to CAPS.