Carol Irene Rans

Carol Irene Rans, 63, of South Bend, passed away surrounded by love and laughter—just the way she lived. Born June 24, 1962, in South Bend, Indiana, to Norbert and Alice (Jarvis) Wiskotoni, Carol was a firecracker from the very start. Her sharp attitude and infectious laugh made her the life of every party and a light to everyone she met.

Carol married the love of her life, Jim Rans, and together they raised their beloved daughter, Angie. Their journey was one of adventure and deep connection, often finding that they were,  “On the Road Again,” exploring life side by side. Carol and Jim are now reunited in the heavenly realms, along with her father, Norbert; her sister, Verna; and her brother-in-law, Marty.

Carol’s legacy shines brightly through those she leaves behind: her daughter Angie (Joe), her three beautiful granddaughters, Allison, Hannah, and Reagan. As well as the littles, Cyric, Adam and Wesley. Her mother Alice, and her five siblings—Debbie, Alice (Marty), Lana (Del), Patsy (Leonard), and Joey—as well as countless nieces, nephews, and lifelong friends who adored her.

Carol loved to travel to Florida, to Smell the Sea and Feel the Sky. 

With a Gypsy Soul, Carol embraced life boldly and unapologetically. Though we miss her deeply, her memory will forever live on in all who knew and loved her. As we hold our loved ones a little closer, may we take comfort in knowing that there are Brighter Days ahead. Carol is free of pain, free of worry, let her Soul and Spirit Fly into the Mystic.

A memorial service will be held at St. Joseph Funeral Home, located at 824 S. Mayflower Rd, South Bend, IN 46619, on August 17, 2025, from 2:00 to 3:00 p.m. (South Bend time). Following the service, there will be a gathering at 4:00 p.m. at the American Legion Post 400 “Fish Lake,” located at 302 Lakeside Dr, Walkerton, IN 46574.

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