Diane Warden

Diane “Di Di” Warden, age 75, of Union, Iowa, passed away on Thursday, March 12, 2026, at her home, surrounded by her loving family under the care of Iowa River Hospice.

Born on May 12, 1950, in Eldora, Iowa, Diane was the daughter of George Arthur and Mary Gertrude (Rowen) Brindle. She graduated from U-W Community School with the class of 1968 and went on to become a CNA and CMA. On September 7, 1974, she married Dennis Earl Warden at the Chester Friends Church in Union; the couple later divorced. Diane spent much of her career at the Iowa Veterans Home in Marshalltown and later at Oakview Nursing Home in Conrad, retiring in 2015. She was also a trained Emergency Medical Technician and volunteered for several years with the Union Area Ambulance. A faithful member of the Salvation Army Home League, she brought dedication and warmth to every role she filled.

Diane found joy in crocheting, cross-stitching, playing cards and games, and spending time with her close circle of friends, where her sassy, stubborn spirit and quick wit were always on display. She cherished quiet moments sitting outside, evenings by the campfire, fishing trips, and her frequent visits to the casino for slot machines and bingo. Above all, she treasured time with her family and friends, especially her daughter Jennifer, who was not only her child but her dearest companion.

She is survived by her children, Kyle Warden of Casper, Wyoming, Jennifer (Matt) Morris of Union, Iowa, and her bonus daughter, Christy Clemons Gunderson; her siblings, Duane “Hap” Brindle, Charles “Chuck” (Sheryl) Brindle, and Janine (Dan) Johnson; several nieces and nephews; her grand puppies, Tyke, Zeke, and Vinn; and her longtime best friend, Bev McCoy. Diane was preceded in death by her parents, George and Mary Brindle; her aunt, Myrna Smith; her uncle, Pete Rowen; her great-nephew, Justin Swick; several other aunts and uncles; and beloved fur companions.