Diane J. (Myers) Shidler

LEIPSIC – Diane J. (Myers) Shidler, 80, of Leipsic, passed away peacefully Tuesday, May 7, 2024, at the Meadows of Leipsic. She was born June 16, 1943, in Lima, Ohio, the first born child to be followed by four brothers, to the late Norman E. Myers, Sr. and H. Jeanne (McCandless) Myers. Diane was a 1961 graduate of Leipsic High School, where she was a majorette for the band. On February 11, 1962, she married Ken Shidler, who passed away November 17, 2022. They were blessed to share over 60 years of marriage.

Her loved ones were very important to her. Her spirit is carried on by a close-knit family including: two children, Pam (Mike) Knueven and Greg Shidler, both of Deshler; exchange student, Kirsi (Jukka Oikari) Poyhonen of Finland; four grandchildren: Sadie Knueven, Lacey (Josh) Powell, Lindy (Kenny) Brand, and Jake Shidler; nine great-grandchildren: Marlee, Brezlee, and Grady Powell; Kyla and Konlee Wilson; Wyatt, Kestlee and Delanee Brand; and Rowyn Shidler; two brothers: Gary (Patty) Myers of Deshler, and Joe (Nancy) Myers of Leipsic; In-laws: Vickie Myers of Deshler, Barb Myers of Valdosta, GA, Dawn Badertscher of Leipsic, Norman Shidler of Tampa, FL, Robert (Linda) Shidler of Grand Rapids, and Darlene (Richard) Hardesty of Liberty Center; close cousin and "closest thing to a sister," Sharon Peck; special caregivers: cousin Carolyn Schoenauer, niece April Patino, neighbor Karen Diemer, and Stephanie Troyer; and many very special nieces and nephews, extended family, friends, and neighbors.

She was also preceded in death by brothers Norman Myers, Jr, and Dennis Myers; and sister-in-law, Karol Shidler.

Diane worked as a Deshler Telephone Operator prior to starting a family. She had various part-time jobs once her children were older, but the majority of her lifetime was spent as an amazing homemaker. She lived her calling as a homemaker to the fullest. She took great pride in keeping a clean, tidy home and a beautiful yard of flowers, especially her favorite, deep pink and purple petunias. She showed her love by using her special gift of preparing and serving the most delicious home-cooked meals and fresh-baked goods not only to her family, but also anyone who happened to stop by the home. You weren't going to get out of the house without being asked numerous times, "Are you hungry? Have you eaten? Would you like a glass of sweet tea or a cup of coffee?" She was exceptional in the kitchen, but was especially known for her delicious homemade macaroni salad and pies, peach being the most requested. Diane enjoyed decorating the home and baking for each holiday, which always meant baking dozens of cut-out sugar cookies. Diane devoted her life to serving others. She truly had a servant's heart.

In their younger years, Diane and Ken enjoyed dancing, especially polka dancing, and roller skating. Over the years, they planted a huge vegetable garden and canned or froze much of the produce, but also enjoyed sharing with others. They thoroughly enjoyed the neighborhood they lived in. There were many card club nights and family gatherings. They spent many years as advisors for the Kountry Kids 4-H Club, which meant spending much time at the Putnam Co. Fair. They enjoyed spending time with their fellow members of the North Central Ohio Cushman Club. Camping trips and backyard campfires were also a big part of their lives. As time went on, the two enjoyed many golf cart rides.

Family and friends will gather at Love-Heitmeyer Funeral Home, Leipsic, on Wednesday, May 15, 2024, from 3-6 p.m. Diane's Celebration of Life Service will begin at 6:30 p.m. at Love-Heitmeyer with Pastor Robert Shidler officiating. A graveside service will be held at a later date.

Memorial donations may be made to Bridge Palliative Care, Bridge Hospice, Putnam County Council on Aging, Challenged Champions Equestrian Center, or a charity of the donor's choice.

Condolences may be expressed at www.lovefuneralhome.com.

Bridge Palliative Care

Bridge Hospice
15100 Birchaven Lane, Findlay OH 45840

Putnam County Council on Aging
1425 East Fourth St., Ottawa OH 45875

Challenge Champions
111913 Rd 6, Ottawa OH 45875
Web: http://www.challengedchampions.com

Charity of the donor's choice