Dianne Zito

Lady Di, Mama ‘Z’

I was born on a fair day, September 18, 1939, to William V. & Famie Beatrice Rausch Herrmann. My older sisters cried; as college graduates, they had a new little sister. What would their sorority sisters say? I had a very happy childhood with my nieces and nephews being like brothers and sisters. I have loved them dearly.

I married J. Dennis Zito (divorced 42 years- ish), bore him three children (the loves of my life): Melissa Ann Zito (granddaughter Beatrice Brewster) Salt Lake City, UT; Melinda Denise Zito O’Brien (Tim O’Brien) Round Rock, TX; Matthew William Dennis Zito (Michelle Reyna Zito, twin daughters Eva and Sophia Zito) Round Rock, TX.

The happiest moments of my life included seeing all three of my children received their Master’s Degrees; the birth of my granddaughters; serving as Honored Queen of Jobs Daughters Bethel 1; winning a car on the TV game show “Truth or Consequences”; many trips to Europe with my children; Camp Tuttle E.Y.C.; singing in Jr. choir, Jr. Altar Guild; Girl’s Friendly; and many fun times with friends in CA (Hayes’, Bell’s, Wong’s, Coogan’s), KY (Derby buddy Joann, who faithfully called with tips), and UT (Sheila Whitney, Frank Paul Haus, Gorgine Bond, Jennie Lyman, and Bill Helmes).

I have been a life- time member of St. Paul’s Episcopal Church and active in the Democratic Party; Order of Eastern Star; Pi Kappa Alpha Mother’s Club (serving as President); Utah Daughters of the American Revolution (charter member); Rausch Family of America; and Phi Mu Sorority. I have also spent countless hours volunteering for the homeless.

Dianne was our devoted loving mother, greatest cheerleader, and a twinkling star. She was larger than life and a character who taught us all the meaning of devotion, laughter, love, and encouragement. Mom made it her personal mission to believe in everyone’s dreams and make sure everyone knew they were loved and very special. Her love knew no bounds.

In 1976, Dianne met Ray Kier, the greatest love of her life. In the last few years, they have formed a loving companionship. Dianne made a beautiful, loving home for them, which they planned to enjoy for years to come. She rapidly became a part of Ray’s entire family, loved by all of them. She was adored by neighbors and everyone she met in Vernal. Her unbounded generosity, her love of people and love of him have made Ray’s life full.

She is survived by children, grandchildren, beloved dog Princess Pebbles, and numerous nieces and nephews. She had a special heart connection with her great-great nephew and niece, Max and Emma June.

She believed in angels and is now one herself. She lives on here through her family in our hearts and memories forever.

Rites of a Christian burial will be said at St. Paul’s Episcopal Church, 3rd South and 9th East, October 4th at 11:00 am followed by internment at Mount Olivet Cemetery, 1342 East 500 South. Please wear hats and dress in color. In lieu of flowers, please send donations to the Shriners Children’s Hospital or Urban Indian Center of Salt Lake. Online condolences may be shared with the family at www.evansandearlymortuary.com