Diane Lee Meinhardt

MEINHARDT, DIANE LEE, 68, passed away peacefully on December 11, 2025, at Via Christi St. Francis, surrounded by the love of her family. Diane's life was one defined by devotion-devotion to her family, her friends, and the many passions that filled her days with joy and purpose.

Diane was born on March 11, 1957, in St. Louis, Missouri, to Robert and Marian (McFarland) Gettemeier. From an early age, she was spirited, talented, and full of energy. She attended Rosary High School in Florissant, Missouri, where she graduated while embracing every opportunity to participate and excel. Diane played volleyball, was a talented catcher on the softball team, and played the accordion with an accordion band known as The Alley Cats, a joy she carried proudly throughout her life.

She continued her education at St. Louis University and Maryville University to become a respiratory therapist. In 1981 she married David Meinhardt and they had three wonderful children. In 1984, they returned to Springfield, Missouri, where Diane devoted herself fully to raising their children.

Diane found happiness in scrapbooking, camping, and caring for her three horses, but nothing compared to the love she had for her family. Her greatest joy was being a mother and, most especially, a Nana. While she was a loyal St. Louis and Springfield Cardinals fan, her favorite "sport" was watching and cheering for her grandchildren. She was always present, always proud, and always their biggest supporter.

A woman with a large and close-knit circle of friends, Diane valued connection and stayed in constant touch with those she loved. She was a fireball-ornery at times, a little stubborn, and full of personality-but beneath it all was a heart overflowing with kindness. She was fiercely loyal, deeply compassionate, and would do absolutely anything for anyone in need.

Diane is survived by her beloved children, Zachary (Michele) Meinhardt, Nicholas (Kelcey) Meinhardt, and Amanda( David) Hale; her cherished grandchildren, Noah Meinhardt, Annabel Meinhardt, Malachi Meinhardt, Henry Hale, and Barrett Hale; her brother, Bob Gettemeier; her sisters, Becky Gettemeier, Donna Besaw, and Kathy Gettemeier; along with many extended family members and dear friends who will miss her dearly.

She was preceded in death by her parents, Robert and Marian Gettemeier.

Diane's legacy lives on through the lives she touched, the laughter she shared, the memories she captured through scrapbooking, and the unwavering love she gave so freely. She will be remembered as a devoted mother, an adoring Nana, a loyal friend, and a woman whose fiery spirit and generous heart left an indelible mark on all who knew her.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Freedom Hooves Therapeutic Riding Center in Wichita, KS where she was a dedicated volunteer. www.fhtrc.org

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