Diana Kay Kracker

Diana Kay (Banghart) Kracker (August 30, 1942 - October 10, 2025)
Diana Kay was born in Kalamazoo, MI, and was preceded in death by her parents, Erskane and Arlene Banghart; and sister, Paula. She was salutatorian at Richland High School, and went on to Parsons Business School and became a medical Executive Secretary at Upjohn International.
Diana was married to Ernest R. Kracker on June 6, 1964 in Galesburg, MI, and they resided at the same home for their 61 years of marriage. She got her first horse around eighth grade, loved water and could often be found swimming in her backyard, even at 83 years old. Her kitties brought her joy and mischief. She could have been found cooking, reading, and playing euchre or Michigan Rummy. She wrote poetry, plays for church, taught youth and adult classes, and even was a co-anchor for a church television show on public broadcasting. Reading was a love, and her Bible was well-worn.
Diana leaves behind her husband, Ernie; sister, Allison; children, Chad (Rebecca) Banghart, Tracey (Rich) Vinson, Shane Kracker, and Josh (Suzanne) Howk. Grandchildren include Lauren, Hope (Viktor), Ethan, and Adrian.
Diana was a prayer warrior for her family, friends, church, and beyond. As grandson Ethan said, "Grandma's biggest goal in life was for people to meet Jesus."
Visitation will be held on Friday, October 17, at 4 pm with the Celebration of Life service at 5 pm at Journey Church, 800 South 24th Street, Battle Creek.
In lieu of flowers, donations can be made for food and maternity supplies for a mission to Uganda; her son Shane will be delivering items personally. Gifts can be made through PayPal: @JustineNagawa.
Arrangements entrusted to the Baxter Funeral & Cremation Service. 269-788-9800. www.baxterfuneral.com.