Diane Spenner, age 84, of Elkhart, Indiana, passed away peacefully on May 20, 2026, at East Lake Nursing Home in Elkhart. She was born on July 28, 1941, in Blue Island, Illinois, a daughter of Thomas and Marie (Menzlar) Lusson.

Diane spent the majority of her life in Three Rivers, Michigan, where she built a life centered around faith, family, creativity, and kindness. On July 30, 1960, she married the love of her life, Robert Spenner, Sr., in Three Rivers, Michigan. Together they shared many years of love, laughter, and family memories.

Diane was known throughout the community for her hard work and warm personality. She served as a lunch lady for both Three Rivers High School and Middle School, where countless students were greeted by her smile and caring nature. She also worked as a waitress at Hickory Inn and Jim Ryan’s and later worked at Walmart, retiring from the photo center.

A woman of many talents, Diane could do just about anything she set her mind to. She made clothing, created beautiful paintings and ceramics, and even became the family shoe cobbler whenever needed. Her love of art and creativity was passed down to her granddaughter, Miah, and she always encouraged those around her to dream big and use their imagination. She never stifled anyone’s creativity and wholeheartedly supported the passions and dreams of her family and friends.

Diane also loved square dancing and spent 20 years dancing with the Yellow Rocks, even traveling to Nashville to dance. She had a deep love for lighthouses, beaches, and lakes, and she proudly participated in the restoration of the Ludington Lighthouse. Those special loves became treasured traditions passed down through generations of her family.

Her sense of humor was unforgettable. Diane was hilarious, fun-loving, and never met a stranger. She adored her grandchildren and great-grandchildren and always found creative and entertaining ways to make them laugh and feel loved. Her famous “Glop,” a macaroni and cheese tuna casserole with olives, became a family favorite and a memory cherished by all who gathered around her table.

Most importantly, Diane was a true Christian servant. She faithfully devoted herself to prayer, often starting prayer groups at church and encouraging fellow parishioners and family members to grow closer to the Lord. Her faith guided every part of her life and touched everyone who knew her.

She is survived by her children, Robert (Donna) Spenner of Lawrence, Michigan, Jamie (Pam) Spenner of Las Vegas, Nevada, and Tina Whitworth of Three Rivers, Michigan; grandchildren, Jessica Whitworth, Miah Whitworth, Renee Hardy, Travis Spenner, Josiah Spenner, Morgan Spenner, Rex Spenner, Roderick Spenner, Jr., Angie Rynearson, Michael Koshar, and Jamie Koshar; great-grandchildren, Gabby Glaes, Mason Glaes, Hunter Glaes, Alison Rynearson, Ava Rynearson, Lexie Rynearson, Anthony Koshar, Konner Koshar, Cody Lash, Kendra Lash, Veronica Lash, Quentin Koshar, J-Jay Wooten, Hailey Spenner, Stephanie Spenner, Westin Hardy, Louisa Hardy, Peyton Hardy, Levi Hardy, and Everest Spenner Leon; sisters, Collette Moore of Three Rivers, Michigan, and Beverly Pence of Lowell, Indiana; along with many beloved nieces and nephews.

She was preceded in death by her husband, Robert Spenner, Sr.; son, Roderick Spenner, Sr.; parents, Thomas and Marie Lusson; son-in-law, Jeff Whitworth; grandchild, Rob Thomas; and siblings, Scott Lusson, Tom Lusson, Greg Lusson, Phill Lusson, Gail Kirsten, Jennifer Ristitch, and Joanne Sanaghan.

In accordance with her wishes, cremation has taken place. A Celebration of Life will be held on May 29, 2026, from 10:00 a.m. until 12:00 p.m. at Ray Funeral Services, 305 Rock River Ave., Three Rivers, MI 49093. Refreshments will be served.

A burial of cremated remains will follow at 1:30 p.m. on May 29, 2026 at Silverbrook Cemetery, 1400 E. Main Street, Niles, MI 49120. The Rev. Pastor Alex Brovont will officiate. 

Those wishing to make a memorial donation are asked to consider Heart to Heart Hospice. Envelopes will be available at the funeral home.