Kathleen Ann Holmes, age 85, of Mishawaka, Indiana passed away with her family by her side on Tuesday, April 28, 2026. Her passing follows a long and courageous battle with complications from viral encephalitis - a journey she navigated with the same quiet strength and dignity that defined her entire life.

Born on January 13, 1941, in South Bend, Indiana, Kathleen was the daughter of the late William M. Cannon and Florence (DeVleeschower) Cannon Holt. She spent her youth in South Bend before the family moved to Rolling Prairie, Indiana where she graduated from Rolling Prairie High School in 1959. During her school years, Kathleen immersed herself in everything from athletics and choir to drama club and homemaking. In later years, she continued to embrace life’s beauties, finding joy in dancing, horseback riding, ceramics, drawing, and the peaceful sanctuary of her garden.

In the winter of 1959, Kathleen met Curtis Lane Holmes, the man who would become the love of her life. They were united in marriage on November 26, 1960 at St. Peters Church in Laporte. Kathleen and Curt eventually settled down in Elkhart, where they raised their three children William, Gregory, and Katherine Kiley.

Kathleen was defined by her indomitable spirit and relentless work ethic. Following Curt’s life-altering workplace accident in 1970, she stepped into the role of partner and guide with unwavering grace, ensuring their family never lost its way. As the “glue” holding them together, she fostered a home centered on love and unity—balancing her own cleaning company and extra jobs with a constant, dedicated presence for her family and friends.

Kathleen lived with a profound love for both people and animals, dedicating herself to crafting cherished memories. Whether she was hosting elaborate dinner parties, organizing family gatherings, visiting the zoo with her grandchildren, or giving thoughtful gifts year-round, she made joy a daily occurrence. With a rare ability to make everyone feel truly seen and included, she brought warmth to every relationship. Her compassionate heart extended to creatures great and small, as she made sure no stray pet in the neighborhood went hungry. Alongside Curt, she fostered an open-door policy, creating a welcoming home where everyone felt invited to drop by anytime.

Kathleen was preceded in death by her beloved husband, Curtis Lane Holmes; parents, William and Florence Cannon; and her four sisters, Mary Alice Hite, Karen J. Garrett, Margaret L. Carlson, and Claire M. Passafume.

Her legacy of love will be carried on by her three devoted children, William C. Holmes of Granger, Gregory C. (Sherri) Holmes of Edwardsburg, MI, and Kiley H. (Matthew) Wood of Granger. Her memory will be cherished by her four grandchildren, Curtis Lee Holmes, Madison K. (Austin) Meadows, Kacey L. Wood, and Mackenzie K. Wood; her three great granddaughters Maelynn R., Brielle G., and Ruby J. Meadows. Also survived by her brothers, John (Mary Ann) Cannon and Michael (Denise) Cannon; and many beloved nieces and nephews.

Services celebrating the life of Kathleen Ann Holmes will begin at 12:00 p.m. Monday, May 4th, 2026. Friends may visit with the family starting at 10:00 a.m. at Billings Funeral Home, 812 Baldwin St. Elkhart, Indiana. Jeremy Sarber of Billings Funeral Home will officiate. Burial to follow at Rice Cemetery.

Condolences may be made online at www.billingsfuneralhome.com