Diane Kay Frantz

Diane Kay Frantz, 76, of Traverse City, passed away peacefully on August 22, 2024. She has received her “Angel Wings” and is now free of her broken body. Born on November 1, 1947, in Jackson, Michigan, to Robert and Lucile Squires, Diane lived a life filled with love, resilience, and a deep connection to nature. Diane spent her childhood in Phoenix but came back to Michigan frequently to see her “Auntie” in Traverse City. She embraced the beauty of northern Michigan and met her husband, Dennis Frantz, on one of those visits. Dennis joined her in her creative, artistic and passionate love of life. She had a profound love for nature, a gypsy spirit, and life was truly an adventure to be explored with wonder, curiosity and great love. She loved to travel, but also enjoyed peace, quiet, yoga, reading her books, painting and drawing. Her books brought her great comfort and she never stopped reading and learning. Diane was also deeply spiritual, finding strength and solace in her beliefs, especially after being diagnosed with multiple sclerosis at the age of 28. Her husband, Dennis was her biggest supporter over the years and together they shared a bond of love and mutual respect, weathering life’s storms with grace and unity. Dennis was the constant in her life. He visited her daily during her extended stay at The Villa of Traverse Point when the MS took away her ability to walk. Over the years, Diane also received support and care from her cousin, Rhonda who was blessed to share Diane’s life journey. Despite the challenges she faced, Diane always had a twinkle in her eye and an imagination that took her places she could no longer physically go. Her unwavering spirit was a testament to her strength and determination, qualities admired by all who knew her. Diane is survived by her loving husband Dennis Frantz; her sister Sharon Fanning; and cousins: Thomas (Kimberly) Barnum, Rhonda (Larry) Elliott, Linda (Dan) Pike, Pat Sheldon, Sheryl Barnum, and Nancy Barnum; a special “son” Michael Hofstetter of Scottsdale, AZ; and her lifelong friends Becky, Nancy and Cheryl. She is preceded in death by her parents, Robert and Lucile Squires; her brother, Vernon Squires; and her beloved “Auntie”, Elaine Ackerman. A private memorial gathering will be held at Inland Baptist Church, and Diane will be laid to rest at Barnum Cemetery in Mayfield, MI. If you wish, memorial contributions may be made to National MS Foundation or the Parkinson’s Foundation in memory of Diane. Understanding the mind and how our brains work was one of her life’s passions. The family invites you to share your cherished memories of Diane at www.Reynolds-Jonkhoff.com.

Diane Kay Frantz

November 1, 1947 - August 22, 2024