Diane Thoma

Diane had a deep love for collecting glassware, anything adorned with red cardinals and found great joy in cooking and baking for her family and friends. Her greatest pride and happiness came from her granddaughter, Allyshia, with who she shared a special bond. Time spent with family was what she cherished most.

Diane (Olson) Thoma, age 88 of the Town of Lebanon, passed away on Friday, August 15, 2025.

Born the youngest of six children to Ole and Alma (Helgeson) Olson on July 14, 1937 in Iola, Wisconsin, Diane spent her childhood in Iola and graduated from Iola High School with the class of 1955. After high school, she moved to Milwaukee and held various jobs before graduating from beauty school in 1958. Shortly after, she returned to the Iola area.

Diane met her future husband, William A. Thoma, at the Portage County Fair in Rosholt, WI. The two were married on October 22, 1960, at Northland Lutheran Church and enjoyed 39 years of marriage until William's passing in June 2000. Together they were blessed with three children: William (Sheila) and William's daughter, Allyshia of New London; Jayne of Waukesha; and Mark of Manawa.

Bill and Diane lived and worked on the Thoma Century Farm Homestead in the Town of Lebanon, where they raised their family. After Bill's passing, Diane continued to reside on the family farm until her passing. She also worked at Sturm Foods in Manawa from the late 1990's until her retirement. During her time there, she made lasting friendships, which she treasured throughout her life.

Diane was a longtime member of Trinity Lutheran Church in Bear Creek, where she served faithfully for many years as part of the altar guild. She also found great pleasure in welcoming members into her home for Bible study. A woman of deep faith, she lived grounded in love, kindness, and the promise of eternal life. Her faith was the quiet strength that guided her daily and she was grateful her parents provided the spiritual foundation. Diane was known for her beautifully handwritten notes, which offered encouragement and comfort to all who received them.

One of the greatest highlights of Diane's life was a trip to Norway to visit relatives. Her Norwegian heritage was a deep source of pride and was reflected throughout her home. She looked forward to the Norwegian dinner hosted each year by Northland Lutheran Church. In later years, when she could no longer attend in person, her son Mark made sure to bring her a plate so she could still enjoy the tradition she loved so much.

Diane will be remembered for her warm heart, strong spirit, and the joy she brought to those around her. Her love of family, tradition, and heritage left a legacy that will continue to live on through those who knew and loved her.

Diane is survived by her three children; her granddaughter, Allyshia; daughter-in-law, Sheila and her sister, Janice. She is further survived by many nieces, nephews, and cousins.

In lieu of flowers, the family invites you to honor Diane's legacy through a gift to Trinity Lutheran Church, Bear Creek or Northland Lutheran Church.

The Funeral Service for Diane will be held at 11:00 a.m. on Friday, August 22, 2025 at Trinity Lutheran Church in Bear Creek. The visitation will take place at the church from 9:00 a.m. until the time of the service. Burial will be in Northland Cemetery, Iola.