Dianne Kay Artz

Dianne Kay Artz, born October 1, 1937, in San Jose, Illinois, passed away peacefully on October 30, 2024, surrounded by her family. Dianne spent her early years in San Jose, where she was a cheerleader and active in student government. During her sophomore year she and her family moved to Riverside, California, where she graduated from Riverside High School in 1955.

In 1956, Dianne met Bill Artz, a Deputy Probation Officer, and the two quickly fell in love. They married on November 18, 1956 and made their home in West Covina, CA. Together they built a beautiful life and family until Bill’s passing in 1991.

Dianne and Bill raised three children: Derek, Debbie, and David. After Bill’s retirement in 1978, the family moved to Mabton, Washington. Dianne devoted herself to her church, serving as a secretary and Deaconess at Mabton Grace Brethren Church for many years. In 1994, Dianne married Donn Storslee, who preceded her in death in 2013.

Dianne was a talented crafter and quilter, creating treasured pieces for family and friends. In her later years she loved to spend her time on the golf course, playing in tournaments and even traveling abroad on golfing trips. Dianne’s life was deeply rooted in her faith and devotion to Jesus Christ. Known as a devoted prayer warrior, she lovingly lifted her family and friends up in prayer and embraced her church family as her own.

She is survived by her children: Derek (Millie) Artz of Pasco, WA; Debbie (Bill) Harris of Henderson, NV; and David Artz of Chattanooga, TN; her daughter-in-law Shonda Artz; her grandchildren: Jessica (Scott) Collins, Jaclyn Harris (Jeff Tessner), Ryan (Rachel) Harris, Jace Harris, Krista (Jared) DeJong, Brandon (Cristal) Artz, Lauren (Damien) Dodson, and Alex (Chloe) Artz; and her great-grandchildren: Jude, Adelynn, Lincoln, Hendrik, Renier, Summer, Brynlie, Taylie, Rylie, Elaina, Hannah, Olivia, Aaliyah, and Gianna. Dianne is also survived by her brother, Daun (Millie) Smith, her sister, Junelle (Glenn) Grizzle, and many beloved nieces, nephews, and cousins. She was preceded in death by her first husband, Bill Artz; her second husband, Donn Storslee; her parents, Merle and Iva Smith; and her sister, Jeanette Wimmer.

The family extends their heartfelt gratitude to Ed and Dorothy Houser, Bob and Kristi Powers, and Brezzi Campos for their faithfulness and special care during Dianne’s final days. Her legacy of faith, kindness, and love will live on in the hearts of those she touched. She will be dearly missed by all who knew and loved her.

Viewing and Visitation will be held on Wednesday, November 13, 2024 from 3:00 p.m. to 6:00 p.m. at the Smith Funeral Home, Sunnyside, WA.  Funeral Service will be held on Thursday, Nov. 14, 2024 at 11:00 a.m. at the Mabton Grace Brethren Church 428 B. St.  Mabton, WA  98935    Burial will follow at the Mabton Cemetery.  Those wishing to sign Dianne's online memorial book may do so at www.funeralhomesmith.com    Smith Funeral Home is in care of arrangements. 

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