Obituary of Diane Frances Stilwell

Diane Frances Stilwell, age 72 of Atalissa, Iowa, was called home to be with the Lord on May 7th, 2025 while surrounded by her loved ones at CrestView Specialty Care, West Branch. 

Her journey on earth was marked by her faithfulness to her church, where she was affectionately known to many as “Sister Diane.” She is remembered for her ability to always have a friendly and kind word to anyone, and most importantly, for her unwavering love for her children and grandchildren.  Her passing has left a void in the hearts of her family, church family, farmer’s market friends, fair friends, and many others whose lives were touched by her kindness and always cheerful greeting.

Diane loved being outdoors, and spent many days in the family greenhouse caring for the plants that she would then sell for OakHill Acres at farmer’s markets.  She looked forward to market days where she would get to interact with all the shoppers, as Diane never knew a stranger.  Her summers were spent with her family attending various fairs and Iowa State Fair, in particular, was a highlight of her year.  More than anything, though, Diane loved being a grandma.  She loved her weeks spent in Milan and had many fond memories of vacations, holidays, and time with her favorite family dogs, that she talked of often.  Diane was so proud of her family, and her grandchildren and their many successes were a favorite topic of hers. Diane’s love for being a grandma extended outside of her natural family, and many church children viewed her as a grandmotherly figure in their lives, with warm memories of her patient listening ear and willingness to play any board game with them.

Diane loved serving God, and even in the midst of her most painful battles, Diane leaned on  her faith for strength.  She would want everyone to know that true peace and joy in life can only be found when you let God help lead you through life’s troubles.  

Diane was preceded in death by her parents, Joseph Sharrar and Anna Mae Gremonprez. 

Diane is survived by her three children, Joseph Nosler of Durant, IA, Christina (Andy) Tygrett of Atalissa, IA, and Bonnie (Justin) Mathias of Milan, IL; her beloved grandchildren, Brenton VanThournout, Patrick Nosler, Carter and Lydia Nosler, Elizabeth Main, Ashley and Joshua Mathias, Madelynn, Allison and Charlotte Tygrett; five great-grandchildren, and one brother, Mark (Jane) Sharrar of York, Pa. 

The family would like to thank Dr. Karwal for his loving care of their mother throughout her cancer battle.

There will be a memorial service in honor of Diane on Friday, May 16th at 5:00pm at Hope Church, 713 W. 4th St.,Tipton, Iowa.  A time of visitation with the family will begin at 4:00pm, with a meal following the service.