Diane Marie Lemke, 82

Diane Marie Lemke, of Shantytown, passed away peacefully on April 26, 2026, at Aspirus Wausau Hospital, at the age of 82.

Diane was born May 26, 1943, in Stevens Point, WI; daughter of the late Felix and Irene (Patoka) Somers. She grew up in the area, attending local schools, and graduated from PJ Jacobs High School in 1961.

Following high school, Diane entered the workforce. She worked in the Milwaukee area for a time before moving back to Stevens Point. Upon her return, she met Stanley Lemke and the two were married on October 17, 1964 at Sacred Heart Catholic Church in Polonia. Once she and Stanley began a family, Diane quit her clerical position at Sentry Insurance and dedicated her time to raising their children. Once they were grown, Diane reentered the workforce, holding various jobs in the food service industry.

Diane had an adventurous and loving nature. She enjoyed trips to the casino, was a fan of her brother, the late Rich Somers and Gabe Sommers Racing, followed Wisconsin sports with enthusiasm, watched Nascar as often as she could, and was always up for a trip, traveling often. When she became a grandmother, she loved to venture out and watch her grandchildren’s sporting events. When she needed some calm, she enjoyed camping trips with friends and family. Diane was also a natural in the kitchen, known for the best lasagna among other treasures such as her M&M cookies in 5 different colors, her cherry apple pie, and her turtle soup. Above all else, Diane lived as a devout Catholic, living her faith by example. Her inviting nature awarded her with many friends who enjoyed her caring personality.

Diane is survived by her sons, Todd (Ruthie) Lemke of Shantytown, Tim Lemke of Shantytown, and Torrey (Hope) Lemke of Lasing, IA; her grandchildren, Dana (Dillon Streator) Lemke of Chicago, Anthony Lemke of Appleton, Jacob Lemke of Oshkosh, Shelby (Chris) Schmudlach of Cambridge, Nicholas (Kali) Lemke of Stevens Point, and Cutler, Dylan, and Hudson Lemke all of Lansing, IA; and 6 great-grandchildren with 1 on the way.

Diane was preceded in death by her parents, Irene and Felix; her beloved husband, Stanley; and a brother, Rich.

A funeral service will be held at 4:00 PM on Friday, May 1, 2026, at St. Ladislaus Catholic Church – 173141 State Highway 153, Hatley, WI. Friends and family are invited to gather and share memories at the church from 2:00 PM until the time of service. Burial will follow at the parish cemetery.

Shuda Funeral Chapel is honored to be assisting the family.