On December 26, 2024, Diane Delynn Van Sike, aged 77, peacefully passed away at her home in Andover, surrounded by her devoted family. Born on May 5, 1947, in Russell, Kansas, to Jessie Orville and Orpha Pearl (Ogle) Jones, Diane lived a life filled with love, devotion, and a genuine commitment to those around her.

Growing up in the close-knit community of Russell, Diane graduated from Russell High School in 1965 before moving to Wichita to attend Wichita Business College. It was during these formative years that Diane began to showcase her resilience and independence. Living in downtown Wichita during tumultuous times, she demonstrated her unshakable spirit, even as she developed a lifelong distaste for chocolate after eating it daily to manage stress.

Diane worked at the WSU football ticket office while pursuing her studies, balancing her responsibilities with grace and determination. On October 27, 1967, she married the love of her life, Larry Dean Van Sike, and together they built a family rooted in love, laughter, and togetherness. As a homemaker, Diane created a warm, welcoming environment where her children's friends often gathered, finding a second home filled with joy and comfort.

A talented seamstress, Diane initially sewed for her own children before extending her skills to benefit other families. Her creativity and meticulous attention to detail eventually led her to a fulfilling career in the magic and costume business, working at Stevens Magic Emporium until her retirement in 2005.

Diane's passions were as vibrant as her personality. She was an avid reader who delighted in immersing herself in novels, found deep joy in the company of her beloved dogs, and cherished every moment spent with her grandchildren. Her journey of faith culminated in a profound spiritual awakening in her later years, bringing her peace and salvation.

Those who knew Diane will remember her as a woman of immense warmth and candor. She cared deeply for others, unafraid to speak her mind, yet always guided by love. Her steadfast spirit, coupled with her occasional sharp wit, left an indelible mark on everyone she met.

Diane is survived by her daughters, Lori Campbell and Sara Graves; her grandchildren, Caleb Campbell (Alexandria), Elizabeth Kralicek, Calliope Campbell, Jackson Graves, and Emma Graves; her sisters, Sharon Hilgenberg and Orma Bilbrey; and a host of extended family and friends who will forever treasure her memory. She is reunited in heaven with her loving husband, Larry Dean; her parents; her brother-in-law, Gary Bilbrey; her niece, Connie Jo Coleman; and her nephews, Don Coleman and Darin Coleman.

A memorial service to honor and celebrate Diane's remarkable life will be held at 1:00 p.m. on Thursday, January 2, 2025, at Damascus Road Ministry Center, 621 N. Derby Ave., Derby, Kansas.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests memorial donations be made in Diane's memory to the Kansas Humane Society, 3313 N. Hillside, Wichita, KS 67219—a fitting tribute to her love for animals and compassionate heart.

Diane Delynn Van Sike will be deeply missed but forever remembered for her unwavering love, strength, and the countless lives she touched. May her legacy of kindness and authenticity continue to inspire all who were fortunate enough to know her.