Dianne Kushman
  Dianne Kushman, 83, a long-time resident of Altoona, died October 10th, 2011 at Mitchell Village Care Center in Mitchellville from complications of Alzheimer's disease.

Dianne was born November 20, 1927 and was raised at the Deaconess Children's Home in Everett, Washington with her older sister June. She graduated from high school in 1945 and then later from Chicago Evangelistic Institute (Vernard College) where she met her future husband. She married George Kushman on June 25, 1948. They eventually moved to Altoona in 1959 where she lived until 2009.

Dianne loved the Lord and relied on him throughout her life. She truly believed in the power of prayer. She taught speech and drama at Vernard college and later had various jobs in the banking and insurance industry. Dianne's proudest achievements were in making a beautiful and loving home for her family. She especially loved to decorate for the holidays and always made everyone feel special. Dianne was also an expert seamstress and enjoyed sewing for her family and others. Dianne was also a 40+ year cancer survivor.

Dianne is survived by her daughters, Tina Shannon of Clive, Pamela (Rich) Wallingford of Altoona and Jody (Michael) Leo of Des Moines, five grandchildren (Shaun, Brian, Danny, Kari, and Payton) and eight great-grandchildren. She was preceded in death by her husband of 47 years, George and her sister June Leifer of Marysville, Washington.

Dianne's family would like to thank the care givers at Mitchell Village and Iowa Hospice for their compassionate care of Mom. Funeral services will be held Thursday, October 13 at 10 AM at New Life Church, 6036 NE 12th Ave. Pleasant Hill, where she was a charter member. Visitation will be held Wednesday evening 5 - 7 PM at the church. Burial will follow the service at Altoona Cemetery.

Memorial Contributions may be made to the New Life Church in Dianne's name.