Diane Elizabeth Dankberg

My wife, DIANE ELIZABETH DANKBERG née Loveless, aged 68, died May 22, 2024 after a long disability and chronic pain due to the aftereffects of colorectal cancer treatment and a sometimes uncaring health care system. She was born March 5, 1956. We were married November 18, 1978, after a very short courtship, a bond that was unbroken until now.

Originally of West Monroe, NY, Diane and our family resided in Tampa, FL for the last 33 years. Moving to Florida was probably the greatest compromise she ever made for me. She wasn't fond of the heat, and preferred to live close to her family, but she loved me and allowed me to move us away from the snow and closer to the theme parks.

She was a loving and beloved sister, wife, mother, grandmother, advisor, friend, and companion. I will miss sharing remembrances of our 46 years together. I will miss holding her hand while watching our TV shows.

She is survived by myself, her husband Alan, our children Sarah and Natalie, and our grandchildren by Natalie, Alexander and Hannah. She was preceded in death by her parents Marilyn and Olin Loveless, and by her sister Karen. She is survived by her sisters Cindy, Pat, Debbie, Nancy, and by her brother David.

Diane earned an Associate's Degree in Data Processing from SUNY Cobleskill, a Bachelor's Degree in Computer Science from SUNY Oswego, and a Master's Degree in Business Administration from the University of Phoenix.

Diane worked tirelessly at her jobs as a computer operator and programmer, but always seemed to be underappreciated by either her employers or coworkers. She was laid off a few years before her illness, and did not look for another job. Instead, she spent more time on her hobbies and taking care of her family. It wasn't apparent at the time that this was to be her only respite.

Diane's favorite things were murder mysteries, police dramas, romance novels, blueberries, eggplant, tea, cheese curd, macaroni and cheese, and spaghetti with meat sauce. Diane collected jewelry, Cabbage Patch dolls, Donald Duck memorabilia, and teapots, and was a master of knitting and crochet. Many future babies will have to go without a Diane created blanket, hat, booties, and sweater.

Her remains have been cremated and her ashes will be kept with family. A private memorial service will be held. Her extended family members and friends are encouraged to get together to tell stories about Diane. Donations to cancer research charities are appreciated.

Diane, I'm sorry you suffered so long. You deserved better. I hope you are now at peace.