Diana Graves

Diana Lynn (Torgerson) Graves, 73 year-old Hardtner resident, went to her heavenly home on July 14, 2025, surrounded by her family. She was born on September 9th, 1951 to James and Mary Marie (McAlister) Torgerson in Glendale, California.

Diana’s mother passed away March 11th, 1968 when Diana was 16 years old. She took over the cooking, laundry, household chores, as well as caring for two younger brothers. At the time, she was enrolled in pre-college classes but made the decision to shift to regular classes to support her family at home. Diana did a lot of babysitting as well as working at a Mexican restaurant and later at Magic Mountain in 1971. She then went to work at Newhall Nursing Home.

Later that year, she moved to Alva, Oklahoma, to live with her aunt and uncle, Jim and Vernie Uhl- people who played a meaningful role in her life. She had always loved it there when she came to visit for the summer. While living in Alva, she worked at Ramy’s Alva Bowling Alley and Cafe while attending NW Beauty College on a Mary Striessal Scholarship. In 1972, Diana was baptized at the Barnes Street Church of Christ, affirming her strong and lasting Christian faith.

Diana met the love of her life, George Graves, in October 1972 and they were married May 18th, 1973 at the United Methodist Church in Hardtner, Kansas. To this union, two children were born, Stacy Dawn and Dustin Luther. The couple made their home for over 50 years in Hardtner, Kansas.

Diana loved being with her family and was known as the most amazing cook. She spent many years teaching Sunday School and Bible School at the United Methodist Church, served as a board member for the Hardtner Public Library, and was a devoted director for the United Methodist Youth. Diana also had a special place in her heart for people with special needs. She had a deep compassion for people with special needs, a love that began in her youth through a bond with a neighbor who had Down Syndrome.

Diana enjoyed a love for reading, traveling to her grandkids’ sporting events, talking to cousins on the phone, cheering on the Kansas State Wildcats, and spending time with George and their little dog, Tasha.

She is survived by her husband, George, of the home; daughter, Stacy, and her husband, Steve Purviance of Woodward, OK; son, Dusty, and his wife, Kathy Graves of Medicine Lodge, KS; grandchildren: Mckenna, Ridge, Reese, Preslee, Lauren and Ashleigh; and one great-grandchild: Nova; numerous nephews, nieces, cousins, and many friends.

Diana was preceded in death by her parents, James and Mary Torgerson and brothers, Jim and Dean Torgerson.

A celebration of life will be held at the United Methodist Church in Hardtner, Kansas on Friday, July 18th at 10:00 a.m.

Viewing will be Thursday July 17 at Lanman Funeral Home, Inc. Kiowa from 2:00 p.m. until 7:00 p.m.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the Hardtner Public Library.