Diane L. Kamin went to be with her Lord on Wednesday, September 16, 2020, after a recent diagnosis of inoperable cancer. She was surrounded by her loving family and encouraged by the thoughts and prayers of her many friends and family.

Diane was born in Milwaukee, Wis., on September 20, 1939, to Martin & Marguerite Bauers (nee Kurth). She was baptized and confirmed at Luther Memorial Chapel in Shorewood, Wis.

The faith bestowed by the Holy Spirit at her baptism remained Diane’s anchor in life through daily devotions, weekly Bible study and worship. Her favorite verse was “Blessed are the peacemakers, for they shall be called the sons of God.” Matthew 5:9. Her kind heart lived the Beatitudes, offering to friends and family her gentle support and encouragement.

After high school graduation, she worked as a clerk at Marine Bank where she caught the eye of a young data processor, Donald Kamin. Too shy to ask her out, Don made his move at the bank’s Christmas dance. He called out “Change Partners!”, grabbed her hand and swept her off her feet. They married on September 19, 1959.

Don and Diane were blessed with four children: Jeffrey Kamin (Sarah), Kathleen Kamin (fiancé John Gregor), Sheryl Zirbes (James), and Laura Manke (David). She was so proud of her grandchildren: Kimberly Kamin, Maria Duffrin (Victor), Aaron Kamin (Lauren), Ryan Kamin (Macailah), Mikayla Zirbes, Nathan Zirbes, and Morgan Marie Manke. Great-grandchild Coraline and the anticipation of Baby Duffrin added special joy to her last year.

Diane’s love of the arts & architecture led her to design two comfortable, welcoming homes which she and Don built for the family. She never saw a floor plan she couldn’t fix.

Diane loved God’s creation down to the tiniest detail; her love of nature led her to enjoy visiting botanical gardens, landscaping her yards in Wisconsin and Arizona, hiking on trails & off. Her insatiable curiosity led to an encyclopedic knowledge of nature, history and the places she had traveled, as well as a vast collection of books.

With Don, Diane was able to tour the United States and the world, finding delight in learning about local cultures, cuisines, and history. They also continued their love of polka dancing and cherished the many dear friends they made over the years.

Diane is survived by her husband, Donald Kamin, their children and grandchildren; her dear brother Frederick Bauers (Margie); cousins, nieces and nephews. Diane was preceded in death by her parents, Martin & Marguerite Bauers, her dear sister Susan Barr (formerly Zimmermann), and great-grandson Liam Kamin.

Dear Heavenly Father,

How we miss this beautiful Christian woman already! You promised the Savior would “bind up the brokenhearted” and “comfort those who mourn”. Bind up and comfort our hearts with unshakeable faith in Jesus who paid for all our sins on his cross. His resurrection from the dead is our confidence that we too shall rise to eternal life with him. To God be the glory! Amen.

A private service will be held due to COVID-19.

In lieu of flowers, please send memorials to Kingdom Workers, WELS Lutherans for Life, or Bethlehem Ev. Lutheran Church in Menomonee Falls, Wis.