Republic – Diane M. Kerkela, age 63, former Republic resident, passed away on Friday July 3, 2009 at her home in Scottsdale, AZ.


Diane was born January 4, 1946 in Republic the daughter of the late Arne and Aili (Carlson) Kerkela. She grew up in Republic and was a graduate of the Republic High School, Class of 1963. Diane had worked in the office at the Republic School for a few years following graduation, and then moved from the area. Diane lived in Seattle, WA for a period of five years and worked for Boeing, prior to moving to Scottsdale, AZ. She received her degree in Business Administration from Arizona State University. While in Arizona she worked for the Motorola Co. which later became General Dynamics. Diane had spent 35 years working and was currently a contract coordinator with General Dynamics.


Diane was a former member of the Bethany Lutheran Church in Republic. The love of her life was photography, which included black and whites and botanicals including flowers and nature. Through a photography club she enjoyed her travels, especially to Europe.


Survivors include five sisters – Dorothy Heinonen of Republic, Shirley Martin of Seattle, WA, Bernice (Kenneth) Hannula of Hurley, WI, Darlene Kerkela of Scottsdale, AZ and Donna (Jay) Mattila of Republic, two brothers – Robert (Nancy) Kerkela of Republic and James (Roberta) Kerkela of Kingsford, along with numerous nieces and nephews.


A graveside inurnment service will be held at 10:00am on Saturday July 11, 2009 at the Republic Cemetery with the Rev. Katherine Finegan to officiate.


Memorials may be directed to the Bethany Lutheran Church, 110 Poplar St., Republic, MI 49879 in Diane's memory.