Diane Kay Schlei

1951 - 2025

Diane Schlei

January 30, 1951 - January 8, 2025

Diane Kay Schlei, 73, passed away on Wednesday, January 8, 2025 at MercyOne North Iowa Medical Center.

A Celebration of Life will be held at 1:30 p.m., Saturday, January 18, 2025 at Hogan-Bremer-Moore Colonial Chapel, 126 3rd St NE, Mason City, Iowa. Visitation will begin one hour prior at 12:30 p.m.

Diane will be buried at Elmwood St. Joseph Cemetery at a later date.

The family kindly suggests that memorial contributions be made in Diane's name to the Humane Society of North Iowa.

Diane was born on January 30, 1951, to Henry "Jake" and Helen (Sorensen) Bergman in Mason City, Iowa. She graduated from Britt High School with the Class of 1969. On September 20, 1975, Diane married Doug Schlei in Britt, Iowa. Together, they built a loving home and raised their two sons in Mason City.

Diane dedicated 20 years of her career to AC Nielsen as a data entry supervisor. Later, she transitioned to working at American Family Insurance. Her final employment was with Directions Research, where she conducted surveys with the farming community, she remained working until her health declined.

From a young age, Diane developed a passion for photography, capturing memories and moments that brought joy to those around her. She was a devoted wife, a nurturing mother, a proud grandmother, and a cherished sister. Her love for animals was evident, as she adored her cats and "grandpets," especially her beloved granddog, Romeo.

Family gatherings held a special place in Diane's heart, and she particularly looked forward to the Sorensen family reunions. An annual attendee of Britt's Hobo Days, she embraced community traditions with enthusiasm. Known for her sharp sense of humor, Diane loved making people laugh and brightening their days. A natural conversationalist, she never hesitated to strike up a friendly chat with strangers.

In her earlier years, Diane found joy in antiquing, thrifting, and hunting for the best deals-always armed with coupons and an eye for treasures. She had a thoughtful habit of clipping coupons, comic strips, and articles to share with friends and family, a small gesture that reflected her caring nature.

Diane was a strong-willed woman who lived authentically and spoke her mind with honesty and clarity. She left an indelible mark on those who knew her, and her memory will be treasured by all who had the privilege of being part of her life.

Those left to cherish memories of Diane are her husband of nearly 50 years, Doug Schlei; children, Andy (Megan) Schlei, and Colin (Audrey) Schlei; grandchildren, Jude Thole; siblings, Laurie Eden and David (Sally) Bergman; brother-in-law, Jeff (Jennifer) Schlei; nieces and nephews, Holly Johnson, Ben Bergman, Willie Bergman, and Allen Eden; as well as other extended family and friends.

Diane is preceded in death by a grandson, Jacob Andrew Schlei; parents, Henry and Helen Bergman; Doug's parents, Melvin and Veletta Schlei; brother-in-law, Robert E Eden; nephew, Brian Eden; as well as her feline companions; Ulysses, Killer, and Whiskers.

Hogan-Bremer-Moore Colonial Chapel

126 3rd St NE Mason City IA 50401

641-423-2372