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Diane Pell Obituary
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Michelle Pell
August 18, 2023
I still miss you and think about you, Diane.
January 18, 2010
I shopped in Middle Class Values since about 1977 and have missed it so much since it's sudden closure. I am sorry to learn of Diane's passing. My condolences to her family.
Michelle Pell
August 29, 2009
I first met Diane in the late ‘70’s when she was about to become my sister-in-law. My marriage to her eldest brother lasted less than ten years. My bond with and love for Diane lasted for over thirty, even though we were separated by continents and by time.
Diane, despite her wicked sense of humor and biting hatred of Hallmark cards, carried inside her one of the kindest and most gentle hearts I have known. The world she lived in so many times tried to defeat her and to break that heart, but she always, always, for years and years, got back up, dusted herself off, and kept going because she knew what she loved in life—her store, her cats, her customers, and the few people she truly kept close.
In the turn of my daughter's head, the way she smiles, the color of her hair, her kindness to those creatures who have no power, and the way she always appears taller than she really is, I see in Megan her Aunt Diane. In that way, she is Diane’s lifelong gift to me.
Diane, in heaven or in your next lifetime or wherever your spirit resides, I hope you rest in the arms of Paul Newman and are surrounded by cats. I loved you and I will miss you being a part of my life and I will always hear your laughter.
Virginia Stuhr
August 29, 2009
When my son, John was selling bumper stickers, Diane was one of his first and most loyal cutomers. I enjoyed visiting with her and admiring her merchandise when I called on her for an order.
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Mardi Silva
August 28, 2009
The COOLEST Stuff ever!!!! Diane's taste was amazing. She always had the perfect card for any occasion. She rescued me in a pinch many times with her wonderful wares!
XOXO Mardi Silva KCMO
Karen Turner
August 28, 2009
Diane was one who would rescue any animal. She loved them so much and did everything in her power to care for them, find them a home if she couldn't take them in. I helped her out for awhile in the store and had a blast. My daughter, Peige also helped out on weekends and during summer months. Diane never wanted to be on "Where's Waldo" and News short to promote her store. But everyone knew who "Waldo was" just by the interview she would have my daughter do for her. Still, the camera would always get a glimpse of Diane holding her cat at the end of each segment. I am so happy we have all those on tape. So many people will miss you Diane! Take care of all those lost animals in heaven girl!
Kathleen Mooney
August 27, 2009
We are so sorry to learn of Diane's passing. Our Saturday lunches at Andre's always ended with a trip through her store just to see what new things she had and see any new cat she had rescued. What a character! She will most certainly will be missed.
Our condolences to her family.
doug wilkinson
August 27, 2009
A trip to Kansas City wasn't complete without a visit to Diane's Middle Class Values. Diane never let me down when it came to gifts for the most unusual people or situations. She will be missed.
Lucy Wilkinson
August 26, 2009
Webster ~ We noticed not long ago that the store was gone and wondered where Diane was. I didn't know Diane well but her store always had the most unique cards and gifts and it would lift my spirits just going in.
I don't know what else to say but blessings to your and your family.
Linda Rostenberg
August 24, 2009
Diane was the most fun person to visit ever! In her world of Middle Class Values, I bought my weight in gag gifts and cards and beautiful wrapping paper, but that is not the reason why I went. It was for the hours of laughter, dark humor and great conversation that was always part of the experience! My friend, you are missed, and loved.
megan williams
August 24, 2009
I am at a loss for words. I remember my Aunt Diane as always being so much fun to be around and always so loving. I would go visit durning the summers and help her out in the shop. I have so many fond memories of her and the only thing that offers any comfort is the hope that she is in a better place. Diane, I miss you so much. You have no idea how much of an impact you had on my life. I love you and I am so very sorry you never had the chance to meet your great nieces. They would have loved you as much as I did. Rest in peace.
brenda werner
August 23, 2009
oh whitten! damn.my world keeps shrinking too. love,brenda
Max Adams
August 23, 2009
Sad news. Diane was the best small retailer, ever. Her shop delighted, amazed and surprised me on every visit. It was always fun to go in there, chat with her, and end up with way more than I had planned. My condolences to her family and many other friends.
Meredith Gordon
August 23, 2009
I have fond memories of Diane yelling out her bedroom door for us kids to quiet down, we'd be screaming and carrying on from a rip roaring game of War and would be listening to loud music. She will be missed, my heart goes out to Whit and Web.
Wendy Hodgden
August 23, 2009
I am so sorry to hear of Diane's passing. She was a great gal and I have fond memories of working for her back in the 70's at Middle Class Values. We had such fun and she loved and took such pride in her store and it's rare finds there. My thoughts are with you Whit.
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