On Friday, April 15, 2022, Dianne Leeuwenburg, a loving mother, and devoted grandmother, passed away at the age of 69. Dianne was born July 7th, 1952, in Grand Rapids, MI to Cornelius
(Bud) Leeuwenburg and Alice Leeuwenburg (Keelean). Dianne graduated from Grand Valley State University with a BS in Behavioral Science. She worked at the Kent County Health Department for over 20 years where she made lifelong friendships that surpass even death. After retirement it wasn’t uncommon to see her sitting at the front desk greeting the community as they entered the building. When not working Dianne enjoyed garage saling from the first warm weekend of the year until the very last sign was removed in the fall. She was an avid Dr. Who fan who could out-reference even the most loyal “Who-vians”. She loved to finish off her day watching whatever the Sci-Fi channel was playing. Dianne was a pillar of strength for each member of her family, she treated everyone in her life as if they were her family, and she had a reputation of doing anything for those she loved. She had a beautiful smile that was guaranteed to infect anyone within her sight, a cheerful “sunshine” voice, and a heart as big as the milky way. She will be remembered by friends and family for her compassion, her outspoken demeanor, and the way in which she loved fiercely. Dianne was always the first person to offer a friend a place to rest their head, an ear to listen to their troubles, and was always willing to keep everyone she knew in her prayers.
Dianne was preceded in death by her father, mother, older brother (Denny), and her granddaughter ShaTara. Dianne is survived in death by her children, Keith Makowski, Kelly Leeuwenburg, and Kate Butler; her grandchildren, Samantha, SJune’, Ashtin, LaNeece, Abigail, Eric, and Giovanni; her great-grandchildren, Jeremiah, Cayden, and Clinton; her dear nieces, Carrie Webber, and Monica (Carrie) Leeuwenburg-Merrit; as well as cousins and endless extended family members. A celebration of her life will be held at a later date by her family. Memorials may be made to help with expenses to Kate Butler, 746 Lake Michigan Drive NW, Apt. 1, Grand Rapids, MI 49504.
6 Responses
When I was a kid, Dianne was my mom’s best friend. Our families had so much fun together! My mom would reach out Dianne when there was a big prayer request. It was a bittersweet day when Dianne, Katie and Kelly all moved up and out of the apartment complex we lived in. I will forever remember Diane’s huge laugh. Katie & Kelly: Love you cousins and praying for peace and comfort for you. Hugs-Molly (Bartman) Perez.
I’m so very saddened by Dianne’s passing. Her obituary describes her so well. Dianne and I worked closely together for many years at the Health Department. She was an integral part of my work which she enhanced with her skills, friendly demeanor, and passion to help others. She treated all people with respect and stood up for those who were wrongly treated. I know how much she loved her family and would do anything to help them, at any time, day or night. I’m extremely grateful for who she was and that we were friends along our life’s journey. God bless you Dianne. You done good.
You will be missed but never forgotten Rip love ❤️
Diane is a very beautiful loving caring helping person. She loved family and friends so much and would do anything to help them when needed. Rest in Heaven beautiful Angel Sending thoughts, love and prayers to all her family and friends. Kelly if you need anything please get a hold of me. I love you all ❤️❤️
definitely be Missed.. She was Always Smiling and Cool With me
I had the absolute privilege to live next door to this beautiful soul growing up. I was small, but responsible and without her watchful eye and guidance I’m sure my life would have been a lot different. I appreciate being grown and noticing adults and moments, that helped shaped me. She was definitely one of the people and was there for so many formidable moments.
Kelly and Kate my heart breaks for you. This will be a great loss for you I know. Please reach out, my brother and I are local and love you both. I hope our moms are swapping stories and catching up.