Diane Lynn Garabedian

Diane Lynn Garabedian, born July 30, 1946, in Detroit, Michigan, passed away on March 26, 2026.

Diane lived a full and vibrant life centered around family, friendship, and the simple joys that brought her happiness. She had a contagious laugh, a playful sense of humor, and a gift for making those around her feel loved and welcomed. She especially cherished her time with family and adored her six grandchildren, who brought her immense pride and joy.

A devoted wife to the late George Garabedian, Diane shared a life filled with love, laughter, and cherished traditions. She was a beloved mother to Diane Miettunen (Gary), David Garabedian (Susan), Danielle Garabedian (Tom), and the late Deborah Garabedian and a devoted grandmother to Dawson, Skyler, Audrey, Taylor, Alexandra and Oliver.

Diane found joy in many passions. She loved traveling, especially her treasured trips to Aruba, and spent winters traveling with friends for months at a time. Whether relaxing at the beach or camping in a luxurious 5th wheel, she embraced every adventure. At home, she enjoyed canning with ingredients from her own garden and always making birthdays feel special.

She had a creative spirit and was known for her thoughtful, handmade gifts. A hard worker throughout her life, Diane built a career in banking and computer programming, taking great pride in her ability to even take apart and reassemble a computer. Diane was also a dance teacher, sharing her love of movement through tap, ballet, gymnastics, ballroom dance, jazz, Hawaiian dance, and baton twirling. She was featured alongside her sister on a local television program for a period of time, performing Hawaiian dance. In addition, she showcased her skills twirling baton-and even fire baton-on the field during Detroit Lions home games.

Diane also enjoyed the simple pleasures-watching movies (especially scary ones), playing Yahtzee and Uno each night with her husband and family, and attending her weekly Bible study. Her love for animals, especially her dogs, was evident to all who knew her. In her later years, her caregivers became dear friends, a reflection of her warmth and kindness.

She is survived by her loving siblings Bob Hunter (Judy), Pat Tokar (Len), Larry Hunter, and Lucy Manoogian.

A Funeral Service will be held Friday, April 3, 2026, at 9:00 a.m. at A.J. Desmond & Sons Funeral Home, 2600 Crooks Rd. (between Maple and Big Beaver). The family will receive friends on Thursday from 2:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m.

Memorial tributes may be made to ASPCA or St. Jude Children's Research Hospital.