Carmen Mercedes Jankowski

Carmen Mercedes Jankowski, 82, of Cape Coral, Florida, passed away peacefully surrounded by her children and family at her daughter’s home in Elkhart on Thursday, April 24, 2025. Born on June 22, 1942, in Vega Alta, Puerto Rico, Carmen was the daughter of the late Juan and Carmen (Martinez) Nevarez. After graduating high school, she proudly enlisted in the U.S. Army, serving honorably from 1960 to 1962. She later continued her service with the Army Reserves for another 18 years, retiring with the rank of Sergeant First Class. On August 7, 1992, Carmen married John C. “Jack” Jankowski. They shared 22 years together until Jack’s passing in 2014.

Surviving are her children, Kathryn (James) Bails and William Herndon, and her stepson, Brian (Bridget) Jankowski. She was a proud grandmother to 11 grandchildren—Ashley, Lindsay, William, Dakota, Alexis, Hunter, Nevaeh, Clara, Samantha, Ryan, and Sophia—and 4 great-grandchildren, Azia, Keanu, Lucy, and Amelia. She is also survived by her sister, Sylvia Figueroa, and brother, John (Mary) Nevarez. Carmen was preceded in death by her sister, Gloria Martinez, and her brother-in-law, Robert Figueroa.

A private burial will take place at Coral Ridge Cemetery in Cape Coral, Florida. Family and friends will be invited to a celebration of Carmen’s life at a later date. Cruz Family Funeral Home of Osceola, Indiana, is honored to assist with her arrangements.

Throughout her life, Carmen wore many hats. She served as the sales manager from 1985 to 2000 and remained a partner at TouchTronics Inc. until her passing. She was deeply committed to her community, volunteering countless hours with Hope Hospice Group in Cape Coral. A devoted member of St. Katharine Drexel Catholic Church, Carmen gave generously to Catholic charities and church outreach programs. She also served on the Boards of T.T.B and T.T.I for many years.

Carmen had an adventurous spirit and a love for travel that took her all over the world. She also found joy in real estate development, owning several properties over the years. But above all, Carmen will be remembered for her grace, her beautiful spirit, and her unwavering love for others—a love that reflected her deep faith and kind heart.

In honor of Carmen’s life, the family suggests donations be made to the Tunnel to Towers Foundation at www.T2T.org or to Catsnip Etc. of Elkhart, a cause close to her heart, at Catsnip Etc. at https://catsnipetc.org

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