Diane M. Carlson

Diane M. Carlson, 74, of Wausau, passed away on Thursday, July 30, 2026, in her home with her family by her side. Diane was born in Wausau, WI, on April 3, 1952, to John and Catherine (Dunow) Stachovak. From an early age, it was clear that Diane’s calling in life was to care for others. As a teenager, she worked in a nursing home, where she treated residents with kindness and dignity.

Diane graduated from Wausau High School in 1970. Shortly thereafter, she met Jack, and the two were married on December 11, 1971. They began their family with the birth of their daughter, Terri, and four years later welcomed their son, Kenny.

In 1978, Diane and her young family moved to the Green Bay area, settling on the east side of De Pere. There, she built a life filled with meaningful work and lasting friendships with neighbors and coworkers. In the late 1980s, Diane felt the pull to be closer to her family once again, and in June 1990, she and her family returned to Wausau.

After returning to Wausau, she had a few more jobs and started making more lifelong friendships. She ended up working for a program that helped mentally and physically disabled people thrive. She was happy there.

In 1998, Diane became the thing she was best at. She became a grandmother or “gram” to her only grandchild, Zofia. The joking debate between Diane’s kids, on who was mom’s favorite, was quickly settled when Zoe arrived. It was obvious to both as their pictures that once adorned Diane’s walls and shelves were replaced with pictures of Zofia. Gram and Zoe shared a special bond, with much love, laughter, and sometimes a bit of irritation. It is safe to say, in Diane’s eyes, Zofia made her life complete.

After the passing of her husband Jack in 2012, Diane retired and devoted her time to the simple things that brought her joy—tending to her flowers, keeping a beautiful lawn, and cooking for her children and grandchild. Her neighbors even found fresh baked cookies at their doorstep from time to time. She rarely missed watching a Green Bay Packers game and enjoyed an occasional trip to the casino. In her younger years she played softball and was a bowler when living in De Pere. She also had a bit of a lead-foot when driving and wasn’t afraid of a cocktail on the weekends, after all the work was done or a Bloody Mary on Sunday.

Diane had a remarkable spirit that naturally drew people to her, especially those in need. She had a gift for caring for others with compassion and respect. Whether helping an elderly neighbor or checking in on someone whose family could not be there daily, Diane made people feel valued, comfortable, and important. Because of her, many were able to remain in their homes longer, and she took great pride in providing that comfort.

In December 2025, Diane was diagnosed with cancer. She faced the illness with strength and determination, enduring several difficult months marked by setbacks. Those who knew her always recognized her stubborn streak, and she showed that same resilience in her final days. She did not go gentle into that good night.

Diane was preceded in death by her parents; her husband; her sister, Janey; brother-in-law, Tom (Jean) Carlson; and sister-in-law, Janet Carlson.

She is survived by her daughter, Terri (Scott) Oleson, Weston; son, Kenny, Rib Mountain; grandchild, Zofia (Alex) Lech, Columbus, WI; brothers, Jerry (Neri) Stachovak and Mike Stachovak; sister, Donna; sister-in-law, Judy; a special cousin, Tracy; and her dear friend, Karen; along with many nieces, nephews, cousins, and extended family members.

Diane will be remembered for her compassion, her strength, and the countless lives she touched through her hard work and kindness.

A visitation will be held for family and friends on Friday, August 7, 2026, beginning at 10:00 a.m. until 12:00 p.m. at Peterson/Kraemer Funeral Home, 1302 Sixth Street, Wausau. At noon there will be a procession to St. Michael Cemetery where a graveside service will take place and Diane’s urn will be buried next to her husband, Jack. Online condolences may be expressed at www.petersonkraemer.com.