Diane Stevens

The world lost an amazing woman with the sudden passing of Diane M. Stevens, 78, of Mancelona on July 19, 2016.

Known for her sense of justice, passionate beliefs, unique and "unconventional" path of life, Diane created a lifetime of memories for all that knew her. She could talk to anyone, anywhere (often causing her loved ones to wait to continue on their way) and jokingly acknowledged that she was a collector of stray people and pets. Her furbabies Lucky Boy, Omega, and Bro will certainly miss all of her attention.

Diane was born November 8, 1937 in Miami, Florida, the cherished daughter of Florence Arceneau. She and her mother moved to Detroit where she spent her childhood with her best friend Joanie Smeltzer exploring the beauty of the city in its glory days. Diane graduated from Cooley High School in 1955. Several years later, she joined her Army husband Bill in Germany and enjoyed learning the cultures of several surrounding countries before returning to Michigan to raise a family. Diane was the proud mother of Debra (Ann) Stevens, Kathleen (Pat Codere) Stevens, and W. Scott (Pam Cote) Stevens. Her mother, stepfather Henry T. Kmiec, and son Gregory Winston Stevens preceded her in death.

Learning was Diane's passion and she earned a Bachelors and Masters Degree from Eastern Michigan University, launching her into a teaching career. Her work with special education students at the Genesee Intermediate Learning Center gave her more "kids" that she kept in contact with over the years.

Retirement opened a new chapter in her life and she and her life partner Charlie Roy moved "up north" in 1997. They settled in Mancelona and enjoyed the relaxed pace of northern Michigan, grumbling about the horrible traffic every time they ventured "downstate" to visit family! Being in a more rural setting allowed Diane to pursue her passion of gardening, bird watching, and fishing. To her there was nothing better than being out in a boat on the lake all day.

Throughout her life, Diane enjoyed many activities including running (proudly finishing the 10 mile Bobby Crim Road Race three times), backpacking on Isle Royale, biking, camping, and completing the Michigan Shore-to-Shore Trail on horseback. She was also a dedicated volunteer for the Mancelona Library and the Bellaire Food Pantry. Diane never met a stranger. Friends became family, and were frequently the recipients of her home-cooked meals and baked goods.

Family was at the center of her life and she enjoyed the addition of Charlie's children Chuck (Jennifer) Roy, Ken (Katie) Roy, and Becky Edgar to the family circle. Diane (affectionately known as G'ma) enjoyed excursions and activities (especially making her special ice cream treats) with her grandkids Heather Cooper, Howard Cooper, Cedric Stevens, and David Stevens and also loved her adventures with her bonus "grands": Lucas, Samantha, Isabella, Jack, KC, and Gabriella.

A private family Celebration of Life will occur at a later date. Please honor Diane's life by planting a tree, spending time outdoors, or making a donation to your local Humane Society, Library, or Food Pantry and share a story or memory of Diane with the family by sending it to dls1307@gmail.com

An online Guest book is available at www.mortensenfuneralhomes.com.

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