Diane Marie Draize Obituary (2025)

Diane Draize, 66, a compassionate caregiver, devoted mother, and beloved grandmother, passed away in Yakima, Washington, on March 31, 2025, shortly after beginning a new chapter in her well-earned retirement. She was born on May 21, 1958, in Green Bay, Wisconsin, to Armella (Deterville) and Clifford Vandermeuse. Diane was known for her strength, directness, and a deep sense of care, that ran through every part of her life. That calling led her to a long and fulfilling career in nursing, where her empathy, steadiness, and deep dedication touched the lives of countless patients and families. Diane was the kind of person who met hardship head-on. She carried the pain of losing her beloved son, Daniel, with unshakable resilience, and continued to pour her love into her daughter, Christina, and granddaughter, Lumen, both of whom she adored. She loved dogs, especially the ones who didn't have a home yet. For many years, she volunteered as a dog foster, opening her home and heart to countless pups in need, offering them patience, affection, and a safe place to land until they found their fur-ever families. Diane also found deep joy in the simple pleasures of everyday life, such as getting lost in a good book and digging in her vegetable garden. She is survived by her daughter, Christina Draize (Jacob DeGayner), and her cherished granddaughter, Lumen, her siblings, Laurel Miller, Mark (Sue) Vandermeuse, Kevin (Rose Nelissen) Vandermeuse, and Carl Vandermeuse, her beloved nieces and nephews, as well as many friends, both two and four-legged, who were fortunate to have known and loved her. Diane is preceded in death by her parents, Armella (Deterville) and Clifford Vandermeuse, brothers, Russel and Dennis Vandermeuse, nephew, Chad Miller and her son, Daniel Draize. In keeping with Diane's vibrant spirit and her request, there will be no formal funeral. Instead, a celebration of life will be held on Sunday, May 18, 2025, from 1:00-4:00pm, at Hinterlands Brewery and Restaurant (1001 Lombardi Ave). All who knew and loved Diane are invited to join in honoring her memory and celebrating what would have been her 67th birthday. We'll gather with laughter, good company, and open hearts to share stories, remember her strength and humor, and enjoy ourselves just as she would have wanted. A true celebration of a life well lived. In honor of Diane's lifelong love for animals, memorial contributions may be made to your local humane society, dog rescue, or foster organization of your choice. Shaw & Sons Funeral Home is caring for the family. Memories and condolences may be shared at www.shawandsons.com.