Diane Marks

With the heart of a grandmother, everyone looked to Diane Marks for her unconditional love and accepting nature. She had a way of taking everyone in, and always made others feel welcome in her company. Spunky and sassy all rolled into one, she was a delight to her family with whom she loved with all her heart. Never to be forgotten, she will be fondly missed and remembered.

Diane's story began during a turning point in the history of America as the year 1945 marked many changes not only in the U.S., but throughout the world. At a time when the slinky made its debut to the delight of children everywhere, radios were tuned to the likes of Bing Crosby, Perry Como and the Andrews Sisters, along with news from the front lines. The victorious end to World War II brought joy and celebration the world over as many across the globe rejoiced in liberation. Captives were set free, enemy forces were defeated, and families anticipated loved ones coming home from war torn Europe. In Allegan County, Michigan, February 11, 1945 was an especially important day as it was the birth day of Diane Lynn, raised by her stepfather and mother, Keister "Phil" and Lucille Phillippe.

Having grown up in the Allegan County area and the oldest of eventually eight children, Diane was like a mother figure to her younger siblings who truly looked up to her. Her stepfather supported their large family with his work at Checker Motors while her mother remained at home with Diane and the younger children. She attended the local schools where she made a few close friends during her youth.

Always a caretaker, Diane married early in life and over time was blessed with five children. Angelina, Tammie, Wendy, Mike and Paul meant so much to Diane, and there wasn't much she wouldn't do for them. For over 31 years of her life, Diane was gainfully employed by National Waterlift in Kalamazoo, Michigan, now known as the Parker-Hannifin Corporation. She made many friends through her work, and it became like a second home to her. No matter the circumstances, Diane was always there for friends and family with a shoulder to lean on. She had an understanding heart which was warm, caring, and never judgmental.

Along with her sassy side, Diane's favorite color was pink. The holidays of Thanksgiving, Christmas and Easter were always a special time for her. There was no other place she'd rather be during these times than surrounded by family. It never really mattered what the reason for getting together was, as long as she had them by her side, she was happy and content. This was especially true when grandchildren came into Diane's life. She absolutely loved spending time with them at every opportunity.

Diane found pleasure in the things that made her happiest. Most recently, she really enjoyed researching her heritage. Learning more about herself and her ancestry was a true joy. She also enjoyed her computer games, such as bingo and poker, and really got into using Facebook to keep up with the latest from family, friends and acquaintances. She also enjoyed playing a good game of cards. In her free time, Diane made a lot of jewelry, using her rock tumbler to do so, and enjoyed knitting. She enjoyed the sounds of country, and especially loved music of the 1950 classics. An avid birder of sorts, she liked watching and feeding them, but her time was made all the more enjoyable with the love of her little Pomeranian sidekick, Sassy by her side.

At the age of 67, Diane Lynn Marks, of Vicksburg, passed away on Monday, July 16, 2012 at Borgess Medical Center after a very brief illness from cancer. She is survived by her five children: Angelina (Patrick) Clark of Allegan, Tammie Walker of Texas, Wendy Bushard of Owosso, Mike (Tami) Walker of Vicksburg, and Paul Walker, also of Vicksburg; three stepsons: Ronnie Marks, of Otsego; Roger Marks, of Otsego, and George Marks, of Kendall and one stepdaughter: Cindy (Ken) MacDonald, of Otsego; 13 grandchildren; six great-grandchildren; six siblings, and numerous nieces, nephews and cousins. She was also survived by her Pomeranian dog, Sassy. She was preceded in death by her husband, George “Skip” Marks; a grandson, Mark Verploegh; her father, William Sills and her mother and stepfather, Lucille and Keister "Phil" Phillippe; and by a brother, Dave Dailey and stepbrother, Skip Phillippe.

Diane's family will receive friends on Thursday, July 19, 2012 from 4-7 PM at the Life Story Funeral Home, 409 S. Main Street, Vicksburg (269-649-1697). The funeral will take place Friday, July 20, 2012, 11:00 AM at the same location with Pastor Pat Clarey officiating. Burial will be at the North Fulton Cemetery. Please visit Diane’s memory page at www.lifestorynet.com where you can submit a favorite memory, photo, and sign her memory book online before coming to the funeral home. For those who wish, contributions may be made to her family.