Dianne Mary Stephney

Dianne is preceded in passing by her sister, Carol Staples, and parents Frank and Bertha Stephney.

Dianne is survived by her son, Tony Simons (Kat) and grandson, Ryon Simons; daughter, Jessica Rich and grandson, Thomas Rich; sister, Catherine Gardner; and brothers, Jim Stephney (Darla), Bob Stephney (Monica), Vern Stephney (Marla), and Jerry Stephney (Elaine). Dianne is also survived by several nieces and nephews, extended family, friends, and colleagues at District 279, where she worked for 31 years.

Dianne was born January 17, 1958 and was the youngest of 7 children. Dianne will be forever loved, missed, and remembered as the baby sister, animal lover, and avid listener of music; The Allman Brothers, The Eagles, Bob Seger, Pat Benatar, Neil Young, Van Morrison, Steve Miller Band, Doobie Brothers, Tom Petty and Elvis Presley. Dianne’s love of music started at a very young age. When she was about 5 years’ old, she went shopping at Donaldson’s downtown and was told she could pick out anything she wanted . . . Dianne picked a tiny piano. It was bigger than Dianne!

Because of having big brothers, her dating was sometimes limited (protective older brothers). A boy would ask “who is the cute girl?” The reply would be “don’t try it, that’s a Stephney!” Also, many memories of Dianne taking nieces to the Camden pool for some fun and the Camden Theater...

Dianne had a gentle touch and was a gentle soul with an inner strength that was second to none. Dianne was a hard worker and her integrity was admirable. She always had time for lengthy phone calls with people who were important to her. Dianne was a proud United States Air Force mom and in the words of her son, “My mom was a warrior.”

Dianne had the best giggle to go along with her sense of humor. She was quick-witted and had strong beliefs and convictions and was not afraid to speak her mind. Dianne was compassionate, generous, and kind-hearted. She loved a green tea frappuccinos, mochas, coffee with Reddi-Whip, Nut Goodie Bars and sweet treats. Just like her sister Carol, she had to have a Chapstick nearby. Please think of Dianne when applying Chapstick, drinking frappes & mochas and eating a Nut Goodie Bar.

In memory of Dianne, please listen to Elvis Presley - If I Can Dream ('68 Comeback Special). Dianne said, “This is such a beautiful song.”

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=u-pP_dCenJA

Celebration of Life will be Saturday, June 8 from 3:00 p.m. to 6:00 p.m. Please wear your favorite Band/Music-Related T-Shirt. Please join us at Dehn’s Country Manor, 11281 Fernbrook Ln N, Osseo, MN 55369.