Diane Irene Hochstetler

Diane Hochstetler of Waterloo, Iowa passed away peacefully on March 6, 2025 surrounded by her family at Unity Point Hospital in Waterloo.

Diane Irene (Heiselman) Hochstetler was born on August 4, 1952, in New Hampton, Iowa to Donald Allen and Elizabeth Jean (Grawe) Heiselman. She married Ron Williams on November 20, 1970. He passed away on July 31, 1983. She was united in marriage to Loren Hochstetler on January 13, 1986. He passed away on April 19, 1998.

Diane worked at Waterloo Industries beginning in 1973 until the plant closed. She then worked as a substitute bus driver for AEA 267 and at Unity Point Hospital as a courier driver before retiring. Her strong work ethic was respected and was a large part of who she was.

Diane loved her family and was the family “go to” for everyone she loved. She was protective of those she loved and honest with all the advice she gave. She had a huge heart and would help anyone she could. The countless discussions that took place around her kitchen table always seemed to provide a sense of resolution and a new outlook on life in general.

Diane loved gardening, planting and taking care of her flowers. Annual trips to greenhouses each year with family and friends was something she looked forward to. She also loved crocheting and made beautiful projects. Her “scrubbies” were always given at Christmas and everyone was always excited when she handed them out. She hosted many “Friday nights” that made wonderful memories. That tradition will continue for many years to come.

Diane lost her mom when she was 21 years old. She missed her for many years, and it is sure to be a joyous reunion. Diane was preceded in death by her parents, her husbands and grandparents as well as beloved aunts, uncles and cousins.

Diane is survived by her daughter Angie (Bruce) Andreassen of Waterloo; a brother Jim (Vickie) Heiselman of Waterloo; her sisters Julie Joyce and Jean Owen of Waterloo; her granddaughter Michelle Herzberg of Evansdale, Iowa; her grandson Shane (Andrea) Herzberg of Evansdale; her great grandsons Gunner and Axel Herzberg of Evansdale; bonus grandchildren Desiree Andreassen of Marion, Iowa and Alex Andreassen of Waterloo; her bonus great grandchildren Holden and Hayden Bries of Marion, Iowa as well as several nieces and nephews who called her “Aunt Grandma” ; and her sister at heart Lois Differding.

Diane also had many pets she loved throughout her life; this included Heidi, Hazel, Buffy, Niko, Midnight, Missy Dog and most currently her cat Lucky who sat on her lap every morning to watch the “Today” show. Donations in her honor to Saving Whiskers Cat Rescue would be a wonderful way to honor her memory.