Colleen Marie Mandelin, lovingly known as "Cooks," age 60 born May 11th, 1965, passed away March 13th, 2026, surrounded by family after a courageous battle with serious illness.

Colleen was a deeply loved daughter, sister, aunt, godmother, and friend. Though the shortest in the family, she had a strong and steady presence and was known for her calm wisdom, practical nature, and dry sense of humor. To many, she was the voice of reason and the person you could always count on when life felt overwhelming.

An incredibly talented artist, Colleen created beautiful paintings and drawings when inspiration struck. She loved spending time outdoors in the summer—especially at the lake—where she enjoyed swimming, kayaking, cookouts, and long conversations with the people she loved most.

Colleen had a passion for martial arts, action and comedy movies, and she never minded a good animated film either. Despite her small stature, she loved big trucks and had a determined, capable spirit that showed in everything she did.

Colleen played a profound role in raising her niece, Brittney, teaching her many of life's practical skills—from riding a bike and throwing a baseball to checking tires, fixing things, and building with her hands. She also shared with her the Serenity Prayer and a grounded way of approaching life's challenges.

Colleen is survived by her mother, Lois Mandelin; her sister, Wendy (Scott) Melby; her brother, Donald Mandelin Jr.; her niece, Brittney (Maxwell) Mandelin-Stabs; her beloved great-niece and goddaughter, Evelyn Iris; her nephew, Donald "DJ" Mandelin III; her aunt, Phyllis Williams; her cousin, Tammy (Sandy) Durham; and many close friends, Chris Lain and Tonie Schmidt.

She was preceded in death by her father, Donald Mandelin Sr.

Colleen will be remembered for her wisdom, quiet strength, artistic talent, and the deep love she gave to her family. She will be deeply missed and forever loved. Her family finds comfort in imagining her reunited with her father, listening to rock music together once again.

A Celebration of Colleen's Life will be held on Saturday March 28th from 11:00 until 1:00p.m. at Downs Life Celebration Center, 1902 N 34th St.

Interment will take place in Leonard Cemetery, Barnum MN with her family.