Diane Baltus

Our mother and grandmother, Diane Rosita Baltus (née Bell), age 79, passed away peacefully on August 6, 2026, at Aspirus Hospice House in Wausau, Wisconsin.

Diane was born on November 8, 1946, in Marshfield, Wisconsin, the daughter of Lloyd "Butch" & Elaine (Hansen) Bell. Those who had the privilege of knowing Diane will remember her as a positive presence and the vibrant heart of every gathering. Her good humor and radiant spirit were instantly noticeable. She valued beautiful things and giving to others and put that energy out into the world at every chance.

Diane was a wonderful homemaker, infused with an endless creativity that transformed simple spaces into inviting sanctuaries. She had a special passion for holiday decorating and hosting and fussed over details to make every room in the house a lovely and comforting place. The neighborhood wasn't forgotten either -- cookies and other treats were always delivered around Christmas, and she especially loved sharing updates about the kids who lived nearby. We were touched by the time and care she took whenever we would visit.

Diane had a special gift for finding hidden treasures; she was a talented thrifter whose keen eye for beauty made her the master at uncovering gems in even the humblest of shops. She was a spontaneous gift-giver and delighted in sending random items in packages to her loved ones. If you told her you liked something specific, you could be nearly certain to receive that item in a 'surprise' package a few weeks later -- which was never really a surprise since she would call or text excitedly until the package arrived.

Her love for beauty ensured she was always impeccably put together -- her hair and makeup perfect. She turned that gift into a career with Mary Kay where she achieved a number of impressive sales goals and even earned a treasured car with the license plate "MKIS4U" (Mary Kay IS For You).

Traveling with Dennis, Diane experienced adventures both near and far, savoring every moment and collecting memories. Hawaii was an especially meaningful place they visited. Every trip detail, photo, menu, and ticket stub was put into a binder or album that she would gladly show you every time you visited. She collected things in binders; any question about a distant relative, a trip, or a news article would result in the instant appearance of a binder filled with details to support her story. She loved keeping information for future reference.

Above all, Diane was a woman of strong faith whose kindness uplifted many. This was especially important to her when the family navigated tough times during the illness and passing of her youngest son, Keith. We take solace in her certainty that she would see him again.

Her friends and family will forever cherish her thoughtfulness, her humor, and her giving in times of need. Along with her faith, she was always being watched over by her Guardian Angel, Hazel.

Diane is survived by her children, Pam (Rich) McNamara and Kevin (Alyssa Schulke) Baltus; daughter-in-law, Jenn Baltus; as well as her partner, Dennis Kowalski. She is also survived by her grandchildren, Christopher McNamara, Rachel Baltus, Heidi Baltus, and Amari Baltus; her siblings, Kathy Langreck, Pattie Kelnhofer, Bill Bell, Amy Boson, and Tim Bell; many nieces, nephews, other relatives, and so many friends.

She is preceded in death by her parents; son Keith Baltus; and triplet grandchildren, Jonathon, Laura, and Nicholas McNamara.

Diane’s memory will remain vivid in the laughter of those she loved, and in all the moments she captured and created. Though she will be deeply missed, the love, strength, and joy she brought into this world will continue to flourish in the hearts of everyone who knew her.

A celebration of Diane's life will be held on Saturday, November 7, 2026, at 4:00 PM at Ascend Funeral Home, 2809 Jelinek Ave. Weston. Visitation will be held from 1:00 PM until the time of service at 4:00 PM at the funeral home. Diane will be laid to rest at Corpus Christi Catholic Cemetery in Bakerville, Wisconsin at a later date.

Donations can be made in Diane's name to the American Cancer Society, Aspirus Hospice House, or the St. Vincent de Paul Society.

Ascend Funeral Home & Cremation Care of Weston is assisting the family with arrangements. Condolences may be shared at www.ascendweston.org.