Diane Zukas

1955 - 2026

Diane Marie Zukas, age 70 of Warrens, Wisconsin, passed away peacefully Friday, February 6 in her home. She was born October 14, 1955, in Fosston, Minnesota to Leland and Irene (Vogt) Frederick.

Diane moved with her family to Tomah, Wisconsin, and was later united in marriage to Clifford "Cliff" Zukas on May 27, 1978.

A Life of Motion and Melody

Diane was a force of nature, whether she was in the water or in the woods. A decorated swimmer with a collection of medals to prove her speed, she remained a lifelong lover of the water-spending countless hours boating and water skiing. Her appreciation for the outdoors extended to the quiet stillness of the forest, where she was an avid pheasant and deer hunter.

When she wasn't on the move, Diane filled her home with music and dance. An accomplished musician, she found peace and expression playing both the piano and the organ. Her creativity also flowed onto the page as an author and into the soil as a passionate gardener, where she cultivated beauty and sanctuary for the birds she so loved to watch. Diane also possessed a deep wanderlust; she loved the adventure of travel, exploring new places and creating lasting memories on the road.

A Passion for Discovery and Flavor

In quieter moments, Diane was an insatiable reader, always eager to lose herself in a good book or learn something new. This love for discovery extended to her kitchen, where she was a talented chef. She delighted in preparing meals for her loved ones, using her culinary skills to bring people together around the table and create a warm, welcoming home.

Professional Excellence and Community Spirit

Diane brought the same discipline to her career as she did to her hobbies. A proud graduate of Tomah High School and Western Wisconsin Technical College, she spent many years as a dedicated employee of the Northwest Telephone Company. She later served as a Senior Accountant at Clifton Larson Allen, where her sharp mind and integrity were deeply valued.

Her commitment to her hometown was unwavering. Diane served as an:

-Ambassador for the Tomah Area Chamber of Commerce

-Board Member for the Friends of the Tomah Public Library

-Devoted Member of Peace Lutheran Church

A Heart for Service

Above all, Diane was defined by her generosity. She lived her faith through action, consistently donating food and clothing to those in need and providing financial support to numerous charitable causes. She believed in lifting others up, often doing so without seeking any recognition in return.

Family and Legacy

Of all her titles-accountant, athlete, author, and advocate-the ones she cherished most were wife and mother. Her family was her "north star," and the love she poured into her home remains her most significant achievement.

Diane was preceded in death by her parents, Leland and Irene Frederick.

Her legacy of love and strength continues through her survivors: her devoted husband, Clifford; her daughter, Leslie Zukas (fiancé Brian Nelson) and granddaughter, Angelie; and her son, Keith Zukas (partner Nicholas Enders).

She is further survived by her siblings, Charles (Jolene) Frederick, Kevin (Kelley) Frederick, Laura (Daniel) Byars, and David (Marcelene) Frederick, as well as many nieces, nephews, extended family members, and dear friends who became like family over the years.

Visitation will be held Friday, February 13, 2026, from 11:00 a.m. until 1:00 p.m. at the Torkelson Funeral Home in Tomah. A graveside service will follow in the Oak Grove Cemetery, Tomah, Wisconsin. Pastor Dawn Lindberg will officiate. Online condolences are available at www.torkelsonfuneralhome.com.