Diane Spiess (Kouba) Orchard, 79, of Zumbrota, formerly of Albert Lea, gained her wings Wednesday, Feb. 20, 2019, at Samaritan Bethany in Rochester.

Diane was born July 28, 1939, in Austin to Cyrol Spiess and Theresa (Uzlik) Greene. She spent her younger years in Austin and graduated from Austin High School.

One of Diane’s early ventures was modeling for fashion shows at Wallace’s Department Store. Her love of sewing kept her busy making clothes for her children and doing projects for friends and family. Over the years she worked in a former family business and North Park store in Albert Lea. She spent her career in sales, always sharing a smile and kind words with everyone she met.

To her, there were no strangers, only friends she had not yet met. One of her great passions was rescuing dogs from shelters and she loved keeping them as family pets in her home over the years. Her hobbies included hunting, snowmobiling, hanging out at the lake and being an amazing cook and baker.

She was an avid book and movie lover who preferred conversation over a cup of coffee over a phone call and had a distinct, sharp sense of humor. Her pride and joy were her kids, grandkids and great-grandkids, always making sure to send cards or call to check in when she knew a birthday was coming.

Her sense of compassion led her to volunteer with the Jaycees, work with children and spend time serving her family. Even when money was tight, she was always there to lend a hand to those in need. To the very end, her stubborn will and determination kept her alive and thriving until she was called home.

Survivors include Jeff (Patty) Kouba of St. Francis, Phil (Melanie) Kouba of Brainerd, Liz Bachtle (Curt Benson) of Albert Lea, Joe Kouba of Mazeppa, Sarah (Pat) McGowan of Tucson, Arizona, Richard (Christina) Orchard of Pine Island and Beth (Steve) Kudwa of Carol Stream, Illinois. She is also survived by many grandchildren and great-grandchildren, in whom she took much pride; and her sister, Sharon (Spiess) Pfeifer, of Rochester.

She is preceded in death by her parents Cyrol Spiess and Theresa (Uzlik) Greene.

A celebration of life service will be at 11 a.m. Thursday at Mayer Funeral Home. The Rev. Lauren W. Orchard will officiate. Friends may call one hour prior to the service at Mayer Funeral Home. Interment will be in Oakwood Cemetery.

Memorials are preferred to the Humane Society of Freeborn County and may be made in her name. Condolences may be left online at www.mayerfh.com.