May 5, 1952- April 5, 2019
It is with great sadness our family announces Diane’s passing, peacefully at Hospice Wellington, in Guelph, Ontario on Friday, April 5th, 2019 in her 66th year.
Beloved wife and best friend of Randy for 55 years. Loved and devoted mother of Kyla Hild (John), Mandy Prokop (Greg), and Tara Prokop. Loving and proud Nanny of Samantha and Alyssa also remembered by Gaby and Ali. Cherished and dear sister of Darlene Smith (Heather).
Predeceased by her parents Isabel and Leonard Smith, and Brother Wayne Smith. Diane will be greatly missed and fondly remembered by her numerous extended family members, Brothers and Sisters In-Law, Aunts, Uncles, Cousins, Nieces and Nephews, and friends who became family.
Diane raised three strong, independent daughters (and was the sounding board for many others). Also known as Lady Di, “the Pope,” mom, mumsie, mother, Diane, babe and nanny.
Diane was born in Winnipeg, Manitoba where she was fortunate to meet her soul-mate at the age of twelve. Diane and Randy married when they were twenty; continuing to live in Winnipeg and raise their three daughters before moving to Ontario in 1989.
Diane’s career was spent working in accounting departments for companies that helped people; in Winnipeg she worked for The Sharon Home before moving onto The Learning Disabilities Association of Manitoba. Once settling in Kitchener, she enjoyed her employment at Lutherwood before ‘retiring’ at the age of 50 and working alongside Randy (and Alex) for Alcove Drywall. Many of her colleagues turned into life-long friends; visiting her throughout her illness sharing memories of her generosity, support, humour and sharp vocabulary.
Diane’s love of life, compassion to others and generous spirit are why she was always surrounded by family and friends sharing stories and never-ending laughs (dinner was never started until “Grace” was said). Whether it be at the store, one of her granddaughters’ baseball games, trips to Vegas or Dominican, or living life Diane always came home with a tale of making a new friend: for once you met her, you were considered part of her life.
Diane was that one rare person who seemed to have no boundaries of generosity. They say in life, you only get back what you give, and it is not often you meet someone and you immediately know your life is better off because if it. With all the support, the caring and most of all the love that surrounded Diane in her time of need only showed a glimpse of who she really was.
As per Diane’s wishes cremation has taken place. Her celebration of life will be held Sunday, May 5, 2019 at the Walper Hotel from 1-4 pm. The memorial will be held at 1 pm with a celebration to follow. In lieu of flowers, the family has requested donations in Diane’s honour towards GRH Cancer Centre and Hospice Wellington.
The family would like to extend their gratitude towards all of Diane’s caregivers, staff and volunteers at Grand River Cancer Centre and Wellington Hospice for taking care of her along her journey.