Diane (Brainard) Schlechty, 85, went home to be with her Lord and Savior on Monday, August 14, 2023 at her home in Van Wert, surrounded by family.

Diane was born on October 9, 1937 in Lodi, Ohio to the late Elwyn and Bonnie (Gossard) Brainard. She married the love of her life, the former Charles Schlechty, on June 25,1955, in Medina County and they resided there before moving to Van Wert in 1989.  Diane and Charles remained life partners for 64 years and enjoyed traveling in the later years visiting 49 states including Alaska and Hawaii.

Diane was a true believer in Christ and a true exponent of Christian principles.  She was, by virtue of these attributes, an upright citizen, a devoted wife, exemplary mother, loyal neighbor, friend and servant to her Lord through the local church. She loved and enjoyed a wide variety of music.

Besides her husband and parents. She was preceded in death by a sister, Barbara Scarborough; and a brother, Earl Brainard.

Diane is survived by her three children, Kathy (Lewis) Taylor of Farmington, Minnesota, Chuck D (Ivette) Schlechty of Pasco, Washington, and Michael D (Lori Tacket) Schlechty of Van Wert; a sister, Bonnie Hudkins of Akron, Ohio; a sister-in-law, Joyce Brainard of Lodi, Ohio; a former daughter-in-law, Mary (Smith) Schlechty of  Kirkland, Washington; nine grandchildren and eleven great grandchildren.

A private graveside service will take place at a later date in Van Wert Woodland Cemetery.

Expressions of sympathy may be forwarded at cowanfuneralhome.com.