Diane Borin

Diane Borin
Diane Marie Borin, 78, passed away in Michigan in the presence of her family on October 9, 2025. She was born in Avon, South Dakota to Chester and Lillian (Hale) Fees, where she enjoyed life on her family's farm and learning in a one-room schoolhouse. She graduated from Avon High School in 1965 and went on to earn a degree in Math Education from University of South Dakota, where she roomed with her childhood best friend and future sister-in-law, Kristi (Borin) Zimmerman. A gifted teacher, "Mrs. B" taught junior high and high school mathematics in Essexville, Michigan, and later in Northborough, Massachusetts.
During her childhood, Diane met her lifelong love and future husband, James Leighton Borin. The high school sweethearts were married for 56 years, raising their daughters Breanne (Douglas) Wallaker and Samantha (Gregory) McDaniel and opening their hearts and home to their foster daughter, Anita Newton.
Diane was known for her wide-ranging interests and her warm, adventurous spirit. From riding on a camel in Israel to going on safari in Africa, she explored the world with Jim and her family, cherishing her visits to Italy's Cinque Terre and Montalcino most of all.
At home, she poured love into everything she touched. She was an avid tennis player, a devoted bridge player with her "Ladies of the Club," and a warm, generous hostess, especially at their Cocoa Beach home, where she loved to cook for family and friends and walk on the beach. She also loved working in her yard and creating beautiful, memorable quilts for loved ones. She laughed easily, often, and heartily, finding joy in good company, a walk outside, or a shared meal. Diane also loved giving back to her community-volunteering her time, donating blood, leading Girl Scout troops, and serving at Memorial Presbyterian Church in Midland through Vacation Bible School, funeral luncheons, and singing in the choir.
Of all her achievements, Diane was proudest of her family. She found deep joy in being "Nana" to her eight grandchildren, who will always remember her kindness, wisdom, and laughter. She loved taking them on trips and to special shows, welcoming them into her home-whether enjoying the pool or the ocean-and reading with them or playing Euchre, Pinochle, or Rummy. She loved cooking and baking for her family, knowing that food had a way of bringing everyone together and making her home feel warm and welcoming.
She is survived by her devoted husband, James Borin; daughters, Breanne (Douglas) Wallaker and Samantha (Greg) McDaniel; foster daughter, Anita Newton; grandchildren, Lillian, Isaac, Lucy, Ezekiel, and Charles Wallaker and Elle, Garrett, and Graeme McDaniel; her sister, Nancy Fees; and her brother, Allen (Lorie) Fees.
A memorial service celebrating Diane's life will be held Monday, October 13, 2025, at Memorial Presbyterian Church, 1310 Ashman Street, Midland, Michigan. The family will greet guests at 10:00 a.m., with the service to follow at 11:00 a.m.
In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the Girl Scouts Heart of Michigan (5470 David Road, Saginaw, MI 48604), supporting the empowerment of young women-a cause Diane strongly believed in.