Diane Pivonka, age 71, passed away peacefully, leaving behind a legacy of compassion, independence, and lifelong service to others. Diane was born on September 25, 1954, in Manitowoc, to the late Marvin and Margaret A. (Schuh) Pivonka. She grew up in Clarks Mills and graduated from Valders High School with the Class of 1972.

A lifelong advocate for compassionate, evidence-based mental health care, Diane devoted her professional life to nursing, education, and service. Her academic journey reflected both intellectual rigor and deep empathy, culminating in a Master of Science in Nursing from the University of Wisconsin–Madison and board certification as a Clinical Nurse Specialist in Adult Psychiatric and Mental Health Nursing. She was licensed as an Advanced Practice Nurse Prescriber by the State of Wisconsin and built her foundation through nursing degrees earned at the University of Wisconsin–Green Bay and Lakeshore Technical College, with a co-major in psychology that shaped her holistic approach to patient care. Diane's academic excellence was recognized with numerous honors and scholarships, including Summa Cum Laude designation, membership in Sigma Theta Tau International Nursing Honor Society, and multiple prestigious fellowships and awards.

Over a career spanning nearly four decades, Diane served patients, families, and students across Wisconsin and beyond with unwavering dedication. She practiced as an Advanced Practice Nurse Prescriber in a variety of clinical settings, including long-term work at Innovative Counseling in Green Bay and service with Indian Health Services in Nevada. Her leadership extended to supervisory roles in mental health and long-term care facilities, as well as to the classroom, where she mentored future nurses as an instructor at NorthCentral Technical College and Northeast Wisconsin Technical College. Whether caring for individuals facing mental illness, guiding adolescents through treatment, or shaping the next generation of nurses, Diane was widely respected for her clinical skill, integrity, and compassion. Her professional contributions were formally recognized through honors such as Continental Who's Who Worldwide Leader in Healthcare and Top Nurse in Green Bay—distinctions that reflected both her expertise and the profound impact she made on those she served.

Beyond her professional accomplishments, Diane was a true free spirit. Her smile and laughter could light up a room. Diane's love and appreciation of nature guided her spirituality through many aspects of her life. Her determination to create Di's Mink Specialties was an example of her entrepreneurial ability, her excellent sewing skills, and a way to creatively honor the family mink business. She loved to travel, had a keen flair for fashion, and walked confidently to the beat of her own drum. Fiercely independent and exceptionally hardworking, she often balanced multiple jobs while continuing her education, believing deeply in the power of learning and self-improvement. A devoted sports fan, she especially loved the Green Bay Packers and football in general, proudly attending Super Bowls and sharing her enthusiasm with those around her. Above all, Diane cherished her family and valued her relationships with her parents, daughter, granddaughter, and siblings—connections that grounded her throughout her life.

Diane is survived by her daughter, Tanya Pivonka-Dewane; grandchild, Alyssa Ann Kiesow (Sam Maltby); two brothers, Peter (Gloria) Pivonka and James (Gail) Pivonka; sister, Donna Pivonka (Nancy Kulibert); an uncle, Joe (Pat) Pivonka; along with many other relatives and friends who will miss her deeply. She was preceded in death by her parents; her grandparents; and her aunts and uncles.

Diane will be remembered for her strength, intelligence, compassion, and unmistakable individuality. Her impact—as a nurse, educator, mother, grandmother, and sister—will continue to be felt by all who were fortunate enough to know her.

The family wishes to extend a special thanks to the staff at Blue Jay Springs and the Preceptor Hospice team for their compassionate care of Diane.

Cremation has taken place at the Harrigan Parkside Crematory and Chapel.  Services are pending and will be announced at a later date.  Online condolences may be sent to the family by visiting www.harriganparksidefuneralhome.com

The Harrigan Parkside Funeral Home and Crematory, North 11th and St. Clair streets, Manitowoc is assisting the family with funeral arrangements.