Diana Carol Klitgaard-Kubicek, 68, passed away peacefully at her home in Gobles, Michigan, surrounded by family, on February 3, 2026. She was born on November 7, 1957, in Milwaukee, Wisconsin, to Howard M. Klitgaard and Anna Klitgaard. Diana grew up in Milwaukee and Brown Deer, Wisconsin, and in 1986 made her home in Gobles, Michigan, where she spent the remainder of her life raising her family and caring for others.

Above all else, Diana was a mother, with a heart big enough to include not only her own children, but many others as well. For more than 20 years, she provided foster care, opening her home and her life to children who needed stability, love, and protection. Later, she continued caring for others through her work supporting Bethany Christian Services. Helping children and families was not something she did; it was who she was. Diana was known for her big heart, her fierce protectiveness of her children, her thoughtfulness, and her unforgettable laugh. She loved holidays of all kinds, but Christmas was her favorite. She went all out with beautiful trees, lights, elaborate meals, and making sure everyone felt special. No holiday ever passed without her finding “just something small” for each grandchild, no matter how minor the occasion.

She loved the outdoors, including gardening, camping, fishing, sailing, and hunting, and took great pride in her gardens. She enjoyed cooking and baking, especially making family favorites like baklava, apple pie, and houska. She collected coffee mugs, loved quirky movies, and had a soft spot for murder mysteries, whether reading or watching them. Some of her happiest moments were the simple ones, taking walks with her children, tending her plants, or spending time outside with animals.

In her younger years, Diana was active in track and gymnastics and earned a Junior Olympic gold medal, accomplishments that reflected her strength, determination, and drive. One moment that captured her spirit perfectly was when her granddaughter hesitated to go down a spider-web-covered slide. Without hesitation, Diana climbed up at 60 years old and went down the slide headfirst not once, but three times, just to make sure it was safe. That was Diana, fearless, loving, and always putting her family first.

Diana was preceded in death by her parents, Howard M. Klitgaard and Anna Klitgaard. She is survived by her five children, Matthew Kubicek (Kimberly), Nathan Kubicek (Dana), Elizabeth Cooper (Jason), McKenzie Anderson (Jaden), and David Kubicek; as well as seven grandchildren. She is also survived by her siblings Andrew Klitgaard, Michael Klitgaard, Patricia Klitgaard, and Peggy Klitgaard.

Cremation has taken place. A memorial will be planned for late spring or early summer, when family and friends can gather to honor her life together.