Colleen Anne Rebish's Obituary
Colleen Anne Rebish of Fate, Texas, passed away on April 13, 2026, at the age of 68.
Colleen was born on February 10, 1958, in Berwyn, Illinois, to Richard and Patricia O'Connor. As a teenager, she moved to Texas with her family, where she would build a life centered on love, dedication, and family.
She was preceded in death by her beloved grandparents, James and Sophie Nolan and Walter and Lillian O'Connor; her father, Richard O'Connor; her sister, Peggy O'Connor; and her husband, Steven Rebish.
Colleen is survived by her mother Patricia O'Connor and siblings Shawn O'Connor, Cara (Reid) Whitesel and Mike (Jennifer) O'Connor and loving daughters, Tricia Rebish and Christa (Donald) Watkins, who were the center of her world. She was a devoted and extraordinary grandmother to Halie Watkins, Stormie Rebish, Raven Rebish, Lillian Watkins, Steven Watkins, and her newest grandbaby, Connor Watkins, whom she lovingly said God brought just for her. Her grandchildren were her greatest joy, and she poured her heart into each of them, always showing up with unconditional love, encouragement, and pride.
As well as many cherished nieces and nephews Collin (Tierney) Whitesel, Andrew (Britany) Whitesel, Ashley O'Connor, Katie LeRoy, Riley O'Connor, Brody O'Connor and Logan O'Connor, Michael Hall, Madelynn Hall, McKenzie LeRoy, Kynleigh Whitesel, Baylor Whitesel and Merritt Whitesel. She is also survived by a multitude of extended family members, and dear friends who will miss her deeply.
Colleen graduated from Richardson High School in Richardson, Texas, in 1976. She married Steven Rebish in 1978 and was widowed in 1991. Through life's challenges, she remained strong, resilient, and deeply committed to her family.
For over 45 years, Colleen dedicated herself to a career in the medical insurance field. She spent more than 20 years with UnitedHealthcare, where she worked as a Senior Implementation Tops Analyst for National Accounts before retiring in May 2025.
Above all, Colleen will be remembered as an amazing mother and grandmother. She devoted her life to caring for her daughters and being the best grandmother anyone could ask for. Her warmth, strength, and unwavering support shaped the lives of those around her and created a legacy of love that will live on through
She found joy in life's simple pleasures—like making cherished memories on family beach vacations and hunting for good bargains. She was a constant source of comfort, laughter, and guidance, and an incredible role model to all who knew her.
The family extends heartfelt thanks to everyone who supported Colleen during her courageous nine-month battle with ALS. Though the disease progressed quickly, she was surrounded by the love of her family and friends every step of the way. Colleen's life was a testament to love, devotion, and strength. Her family will forever be strong because of the amazing guidance she has shown. She will be deeply missed and forever remembered.
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