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

Diane was born on July 28, 1939, in Austin, Minnesota, 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, Minnesota, Phil (Melanie) Kouba of Brainerd, Minnesota, Liz Bachtle (Curt Benson) of Albert Lea, Joe Kouba of Mazeppa, Minnesota, Sarah (Pat) McGowan of Tucson, Arizona, Richard (Christina) Orchard of Pine Island, Minnesota, and Beth (Steve) Kudwa of Carol Stream, Illinois; many grandchildren and great-grandchildren in whom she took much pride; and her sister, Sharon (Spiess) Pfeifer of Rochester.

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

A celebration of life service will be held at 11 a.m. on Thursday, Feb. 28, 2019, at Mayer Funeral Home with Pastor Lauren W. Orchard officiating. Friends may call one hour prior to the service at the funeral home. Interment will be in Oakwood Cemetery. Memorials may be made in her name to the Humane Society of Freeborn County. Condolences may be left online at www.mayerfh.com.