Diane Knoll

Diana Lynn Knoll, 60, passed away peacefully May, 19, 2019 at her daughter's home after a 3 year battle with cancer. She was born March 15, 1959 in Grand Rapids, Michigan to Len and Roseanne (Turowski) Knoll. Diane grew up in Jenison, where she rode horses, dirt bikes, swam at the gravel pits and while in high school, enjoyed tearing up and down the dirt roads on her motorcycle. After graduating from Jenison High School in 1977, Diane moved to Daytona Beach Fl, where she met James Ralston. They shared 15 years together and had two children, Amanda Rose and Brandon James. Diane and Jim remained close friends till the end. Diane loved to love people. She never met a stranger, sharing her beautiful smile with everyone. Not that she was always sunshine and rainbows. Let's be real. She was a strong, independent woman who took life by the horns and never took anyone's nonsense. Even with that you knew it came from a place of truth, Diane forever told you how she was feeling and felt it was always necessary to share her opinion. We will never forget the boat rides, camping trips, days by the beach, bonfires and all the deep conversations on the deck while drinking beer on ice. Diane will be remembered for being genuinely interested in people's well-being and how their life was going. She never turned anyone away that needed a place to stay. Hebrews 13:2 "and remember always to welcome strangers, for by doing this, some people have entertained angels without knowing it." For many years Diane worked at the Grand Rapids Home for Veterans, Therapeutic Recreation/Activities Department. This suited her servant heart. She often said her job was one of the greatest blessings in her life. She taught us to do what's right and do what's good. Be kind and help others. Diane is survived by her children, Amanda and Justin Huizenga, and Brandon Ralston; mother, Roseanne; step-father, Charles Devine; sisters, Susan Knoll, and Julie Knoll; brother, Joe & Cheryl Knoll; grandchildren, Brody Huizenga, and Luke Huizenga; nephews, James Alexander, Ryan Knoll, and Kyle Knoll; Aunt Linda & Uncle Randy Maat, Uncle David; and many dear friends that she called family. All of these she loved and touched deeply. Arrangements are entrusted to Michigan Cremation and Funeral Care, Grand Rapids. To order memorial trees or send flowers to the family in memory of Diane Knoll, please visit our flower store.