Diane Marie VanDusen, born on September 8, 1943, passed away on August 19, 2024, leaving behind a life rich in love, adventure, and resilience.

Diane was most proud of her children and granddaughters. She raised her children, Susan and Edward, to be smart, funny, loving, and caring, instilling in them a strong sense of humor and a deep love for family. A broad education for her children and granddaughters was of utmost importance. As a devoted caretaker to her granddaughters, Lauren and Ava, from infancy, Diane ensured they never needed daycare. Together, they spent countless hours playing house, doctor and reading, creating bonds that would last a lifetime.

Diane cherished summers with her family at Glen Lake, where she found serenity and beauty in the natural surroundings. She enjoyed countless hours of boating with her beloved daughter Susan and adored son-in-law Douglas. She also was an avid traveler, exploring 45 countries throughout her life—a passion inspired by her loving son Edward. Among all her travels, Paris, Vienna and Italy held special places in her heart. Her love for Lake Michigan, oceans and beaches exemplified her deep appreciation for nature's tranquility. One of Diane's most treasured traditions was the special Christmases and New Year's spent in the Caribbean, where she and her family would enjoy weeks of warmth, laughter, and togetherness.

Elegant and sophisticated, Diane was equally grounded and approachable, always maintaining a balance between grace and authenticity. Her interests were as varied as they were refined. Diane had a deep appreciation for opera, ballet, and classical music. She was thrilled to attend the opera in New York and many of the grand opera houses of Europe. Her music taste was quite varied, she loved Julio Iglesias, ABBA and Motown, but also enjoyed modern artists like Lady Gaga and Taylor Swift. She was an enthusiastic follower of current events, with a particular fondness for The New York Times, CNN, and MSNBC. In the fall, she loved to cheer on the Wolverines each Saturday. Surprisingly she became a late in life NFL fan and loved her hometown team the Detroit Lions.

Diane's life was a testament to her incredible strength. She courageously battled cancer four times. During her first battle in 2001 she participated in a pioneering clinical trial for breast cancer, which became the standard treatment protocol. She enthusiastically volunteered for the trial to advance science and help other women. She faced her health challenges with unyielding courage and grace and never lost her sense of humor. Professionally, Diane was immensely proud of her work at the University of Michigan, where she played a crucial role in research grant proposals. She especially loved working with young medical students and contributing to the future of healthcare. Diane's legacy of love, strength, and grace will be deeply missed by her family and all who were fortunate enough to know her.

Diane is survived by her loving children, Susan (Douglas) Richardson and Edward VanDusen, and her adored granddaughters, Lauren and Ava Richardson.

Please join Diane's family on Friday, August 23, from 10 a.m. until the time of her funeral at 12 p.m. at the Heeney-Sundquist Funeral Home.

The family of Diane Marie VanDusen will be gathering on Friday, August 23, from 3:00 to 7:00 pm, at the residence of Susan and Douglas Richardson, located at 4080 Norman Wood Drive, West Bloomfield, MI, 48323. All who knew and loved Diane are welcome to join in celebrating her life.

Please keep Diane and her family in your thoughts and prayers during this difficult time.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations in her honor to the University of Michigan Rogel Cancer Fund for Discovery.