"My most heartfelt condolances to the Heiland Family, Diane is an irreplacable loved one, and a most profoundly gracious friend. It seemed to me that there were no boundries to Grammie Heiland?s compassion and love for others. Thank you, Diane, for your encouragement and care. I will always remember you, love you and be grateful. I see you now, as you Sleep in the arms of Christ."
In loving memory of
Diane Nancy Heiland
Diane Nancy Heiland, known to the world as "Grammie Heiland", went to be with our Lord on October 21, 2018 from what she referred to her nearly 6-year journey with cancer. She could not have loved more or served other fellow human beings than she did throughout her life. She was truly Christ-like in approaching literally everyone she met where even language was no barrier. Her beauty and her charm were completely disarming as she evangelized the Gospel. She never met a stranger and never lost her zeal for sharing the source of her joy. She ministered to countless souls with her servant's heart.
Diane was born in Barrington, IL to Bill and Lillian Larlee on October 20, 1936, their only child. She grew up in this Chicago suburb and attended Barrington High School. It was there she met the love of her life, George Heiland, who was her square dance partner. Upon graduating, she went to Passavant Nursing School at Northwestern University. She and George married on May 9, 1959 and started their family in 1960. Diane began her working career in the OR, with Dr. Loyal Davis, the famous neurosurgeon. In 1965, seeking sunshine and opportunity, they set out for Phoenix, AZ. Together they started their first family business, Arizona Diaper Service in 1966. Diane was their brand ambassador visiting all the pediatricians' offices and appearing on local TV spots. KPHO was so impressed with her stage presence that they hired her for regular programming first with Marge Condon and later with Rita Davenport teaching child care. She raised her four children and supported George through two other successful family businesses. They travelled extensively together around the world. Diane was always involved in religious formation from teaching RE to children at St. Paul Catholic Church to any number of women's bible studies including her time as an officer for the Christian Women's Club. Through it all, Diane was forever dedicated to the needs of her family individually, counseling her children and grandchildren as a whole with beautifully prepared and delicious meals. Diane loved dressing up as a clown, "Bubbles", and entertaining children whether they would be at Phoenix Children's Hospital, church functions, or her grandchildren's birthday parties.
Diane is survived by her loving husband of 59 years, George Heiland, and children Gregory Heiland (Mary), Kurt Heiland (Megan), Christopher Heiland (Julie) and Heidi Paul (David). She was blessed with 17 grandchildren.
A Rosary service and visitation is scheduled for Grammie from 6:00-8:00 PM, with Rosary at 7:00 PM on Friday October 26, 2018 at Brophy Chapel, 4701 N. Central, Phoenix 85012. Funeral services will be at 11:00 AM Saturday October 27, 2018 at St. Paul Catholic Church, 330 W. Coral Gables, Phoenix 85023.
Grammie requested that bright colors be worn. She was especially fond of yellow.
In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to Americare Catholic Hospice for the incredible care they gave. The family would like to express its gratitude to all the friends who made this journey a little easier. Visit https://hansenmortuary.wpengine.com for condolences.
Tributes
"My sincerest sympathy to the Heiland Family, Iwe will always remember Diane?s caring and thoughtful nature. Diane was a kind teacher who inspired us with her advice and friendship. She once told me, ?Never chase luck,?. And to my brother she said, ?always wear a helmet when you ride a bicycle, and always let your mother know where you are.? Good advice. Thank you, Diane, we will miss you always. John and Yoko, Chris and Aiko"
"A beautiful soul! A few months ago I had the pleasure of being introduced to Diane. She made a powerful first impression PEACE JOY LOVE and skilled focus on just me and her. Those who have shared more than the moment I shared with her are particularly blessed. I am sure they know that."
"Chris & Family - With Sympathy for the loss of your mother. Our thoughts and prayer go out to your family during this difficult time. Dale & Julie Foster"
"To the Heilands, Our deepest sympathy and prayers for Grammie Heiland -- a tremendous person of faith, hope and trust in Christ, Her life of service and commitment to others was an inspiration to us all."
"Our most loving and sincere condolances to the Heiland Family. We were blessed to have known Diane and to have shared her friendship and love. Diane was an angel in this world, and we cherish our loving memories of her kindness and generosity. Dear Lord, Thank You for bringing Diane Nancy Heiland into our world.."
"Dear Greg and family, I was so saddened to hear that your Mom had passed away! Every time I met her she was so gracious and lovely to talk to! Our thoughts and prayers are with you and your Family. Please accept our kindest regards, Sincerely Tom & Melissa Kuffler"
"My dear Mary and Greg, How sad to read of the death of Grammie Heiland! Having said that, I have nothing but the fondest memories of the times I shared with her! Grammie was always cheerful, spiritual and perfectly dressed! May she rest in peace! You and your beautiful family have my prayers and sympathy, Carol Stephani"
"To the Heilands and their families My sincere sympathy to all of you for the loss of your wife, mother and grandmother. Diane was a beautiful light in this world, she brought kindness and caring to those who were lucky to know her. I will miss talking to her on the telephone and hearing her cheerful voice and of all the family adventures. She will be missed, but never forgotten. Love, Kathie Martin"
"We are celebrating the extraordinary life of our dear friend and neighbor, "Granny Heiland!" What a blessing her family was to her, especially, we are sure, in these declining months. Barbara last saw her at Safeway, even then with her incredible smile and faith in the Lord. She surely was a brave soul knowing that she would ultimately end her journey in heaven....rejoicing with our special mutual friend, Oralyn! Love to all, Ralph and Barbara Rockow"
"Dear Greg, my deepest condolence to you and your family."
"Grammie was one-of-a-kind, and she will be sorely missed. I knew she was a prayer warrior, and when my sister was diagnosed with ovarian cancer I asked Grammie to pray for her. The prayers worked because my sister is cancer free. May God bless Grammie in heaven, and may He grant His peace which passeth all understanding to you, her family, as you navigate life without her light here on earth."
"To all of the Heilands, I am deeply saddened to learn of the passing of your wife, Mother, and Grandmother. My heart goes out to your entire family and hope that you all will be able to celebrate her incredible life. She was a very special lady."
"I will not be missing our dear Diane, as I feel her by my side always. She continues to nourish me with her smile and kind words. We are all blessed to have her in our lives. I will keep you all in my prayers. Janet"
"Dear Mr. Greg and Family, I extend my deepest condolence to you and your family."
"I hope that our Lord brings you and your family the much-needed peace during this sad time. My condolences to you and your family."
"I would like to express my sincere condolences to you and your family. My thoughts and prayers are with you that God will comfort you in your loss"
"Please accept by sincere condolences."
"Please accept our deepest condolences"
"Please accept my deepest condolences."