Diane Marie Harris

Diane Marie Harris passed away on the morning of March 3, 2026, with her family at her bedside. She was preceded in death by her husband of 68 years, James “Hutch” Harris, her parents Elwyn and Marion Derk, and her younger sister Elizabeth Jandt. She is lovingly remembered by her four children, Wendy (Gary) Roberts, Howard (Nannette) Harris, Lynn (Terry) Kruser, and Elizabeth Egeler, along with her 12 grandchildren and 19 great-grandchildren.

Born in Detroit, Michigan, on March 9, 1936, Diane moved with her family to Iron Mountain, where she graduated from Iron Mountain High School in 1954. She married her high school sweetheart, James Harris, and together they raised their family. Once her children were older, she returned to education, graduating with honors from Northern Michigan University in 1972. She went on to earn a Master’s Degree in 1977 and enjoyed a fulfilling career as an elementary school teacher at Garden Village and Woodland Elementary Schools in Kingsford. Diane was known for her dedication to her students, often creating memorable and joyful experiences for them. In her free time, she pursued her passion for crafts, including ceramics, quilting, and intricate handcrafted baskets that remain cherished by friends and family.

After a visit to Florida, Diane and Jim fell in love with the state and made it their home upon retirement, first in Melbourne and later in The Villages. There they enjoyed golf, pickleball, mahjong, and the company of many new friends. Following Jim’s death, Diane returned to Iron Mountain to spend her final years surrounded by her children and grandchildren.

She will be remembered for her warmth, creativity, and deep devotion to family and students alike.