Diane Lynn Ripple, beloved daughter, sister, aunt, and friend, passed away on November 3, 2024, in Oconomowoc, Wisconsin, at the age of 60.
Born on September 14, 1964, in Satellite Beach, Florida, Diane was the cherished daughter of Howard Alan Ripple and Jean Lynn (Ballard) Ripple.
She is survived by her loving mother, Jean; her brother, David Ripple and sister-in-law, Sharon; nephew, Colton; her niece, Taryn, and her sister, Susan (Ripple) Hayden and brother-in-law, Carl; and her nephew, Gabriel.
Diane was raised in Hales Corners, Wisconsin, where she attended Whitnall High School. She went on to graduate from the University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee and later earned her Master's Degree in Non-Profit Management.
Diane devoted her career to helping victims of domestic violence, a cause that was truly her life's work. As a Director at the Women's Center in Waukesha, she was instrumental in serving and advocating for the greater Milwaukee area, dedicating her energy to community outreach.
She spoke widely—on television, in churches, and with law enforcement agencies—raising awareness about domestic violence and working tirelessly to make a difference. She also served on the board of directors for multiple charities, embodying her lifelong commitment to aiding those in need.
Diane was also a dedicated animal lover. She rescued several pets and volunteered at the Humane Society, eventually adopting a vegetarian lifestyle out of her deep respect for all living creatures. Her compassion extended not only to people but to animals as well.
A devoted aunt, Diane held a special place in her heart for her niece and nephews and treasured her time with them. Her sense of adventure took her around the globe, traveling to five continents, with memorable journeys to Egypt, Morocco, China, Machu Picchu and across Europe. She had long dreamed of visiting Iceland to witness the Northern Lights, an experience that remains a symbol of her ever-curious spirit and love for life.
Diane's memory will be carried forward by all who knew her, inspired by her kindness, resilience, and dedication to making the world a better place. She will be deeply missed by her family, friends, colleagues, and the many lives she touched through her work and advocacy.
"Diane's family would like to thank the staff at Azura Memory Care in Oconomowoc for their compassion and the care they showed Diane."
Donations in Memory of Diane are appreciated to one of the following charities
Wisconsin Humane Society -
https://www.wihumane.org/donate
Kids Matter Inc -
https://www.kidsmatterinc.org/make-a-difference/donate/
The Women's Center -
https://twcwaukesha.org/donate/