DIANE JOYCE GROUWINKEL

1937 - 2021

Diane Joyce Grouwinkel (nee Elliott) was born on September 15, 1937 in Wapello, IA and passed away February 11, 2021 in Mesa, AZ. She was the beloved wife of Gary Grouwinkel for 62 years; and loving mother of Kevin Grouwinkel (Karen), Kristin (Grouwinkel) Spiewak (Phil) and Kari (Grouwinkel) Monk (Dave). She was the proud and adoring grandmother of 7 grandchildren, Karly, Korey, Lauren, Sarah, Austin, Sierra and Tatum. They were the joy of her life and spoiled them often. She was an Iowa native but lived in many states during her lifetime as she followed her husband to the many football coaching assignments he held. Diane was a courageous two-time breast cancer survivor but was challenged with many health issues following treatments. She was an avid sports fan and loved the Iowa Hawkeyes. She loved cooking, trying new recipes and entertaining friends and family. She is preceded in death by her parents Leonard and Pauline Elliott of Wapello, IA. She will be lovingly remembered for her devotion to family and her fighting spirit. Visitation will be held on Friday, Feb. 26th from 4 - 6 pm at Friedrichs Funeral Home, 320 W. Central Rd., Mt. Prospect, with a short memorial service immediately following. There will also be a visitation held on Feb. 27th in Wapello, IA from 1 - 3 pm at Snyder Hollenbaugh, 209 Franklin St. A private burial with family will follow. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to the Lymphatic Education & Research Network. For information, call 847-255-7800 or www.friedrichsfh.com.