Patricia A. "Patti" (Schmitt) Kenaga

Patricia A. “Patti” Kenaga, age 67, passed away at her home in Mishawaka on Tuesday, September 6, 2022, with her family beside her, surrounding her with love.  Patti was born June 22, 1955, in South Bend, Indiana to the late Dr. George and Rita (Zeleznik) Schmitt. In July of 1984, Patti married Kirk D. Kenaga.  They recently celebrated 38 years of marriage.

Kirk Kenaga Sr. survives, along with their children Tammi Kenaga of Mishawaka, Kirk D. (Michelle) Kenaga Jr. of Indianapolis, and Rachel (Larry) Hooley of Goshen, Indiana and her granddaughter Jillian Kenaga. Surviving as well is her sister Virginia (Dennis) Rhodes of Osceola and her brother George (Enid) Schmitt of Elkhart.

Visitation will be held 2 hours prior to the 1:00pm funeral service on Wednesday, September 14, 2022, at Cruz Family Funeral Home in Osceola.

Patti was employed as a Certified Nurse’s Aide at St. Paul Retirement Community in South Bend for over 15 years. Her caring heart and compassionate nature allowed her to love and care for the residents of her community as if they were her own family.  Patti enjoyed her career immensely and her co-workers and the families of those she cared for held a high level of respect for the nature in which she took on her daily duties.  During her illness, many of the families of the patients she cared for called, sent cards, and continued to pray for her in her time of need.

For Patti, her family was her first priority in life.  In her spare time, she enjoyed working in her garden at home and spending time with her husband, children and granddaughter.

In lieu of flowers, the Kenaga family asks that donations be made in Patti’s memory to the Center for Hospice Care, 501 Comfort Place, Mishawaka, Indiana 46545.  To light a virtual candle, share a story of Patti’s life, or leave a message of comfort for her family, please follow the links provided on the tribute wall tab above.