Diane Jean Rhyason

Diane, Mom, Grandy, was born Diane Jean Rhyason in Camrose, Alberta to Eugene and Nellie Rhyason (Stonehocker). Born the fourth of five children, Diane is survived by her sister Nona, brother Dale and brother Rob and was predeceased by her parents and her sister Pat.

Diane was a fiercely intelligent woman, committed to education and to her family. She married her husband Robert Stachniak in 1972 and welcomed her three boys Bo (Deb), Tev and Josh (Ela). She was greatly admired by her grandchildren Leah, Gabi, Jenna, Yanic, Kalina and Lilia.

A graduate of the University of Alberta, obtaining both a Masters degree and PhD, Diane continued to give back to the education community: at the University of Alberta Education library, in various roles at Lakeland College, then with the University of Alberta’s Faculty of Extension and finally as Executive Director for the Centre for Public Legal Education. Diane was a staunch advocate for ongoing education and its benefits. In 2012, Diane was recognized with the Queen’s Diamond Jubilee Medal for exemplary service and commitment for the betterment of the community.

Diane loved puzzles, games, reading and spending quality time with her family. She loved the lake and could always be found with a child on her lap reading a book. She will be dearly missed, but lives on in the stories she told and the people she loved. While her chapter has ended, her story goes on. We love you, Diane. We love you, Mom. We love you, Grandy.

A celebration of life for Diane will be held in the Spring, 2027.