Diane Kut

Diane Kut, a loving mother, grandmother, aunt, and cherished friend, passed away peacefully on July 10, 2026, at the age of 86. She was surrounded by love and will be deeply missed by all who knew her. Born on November 7th in Chicago, Illinois, Diane lived a life defined by kindness, strength, and unwavering devotion to her family and community. She dedicated her life to those she loved, creating a home filled with warmth, joy, and lasting memories. Whether preparing her beloved pierogis and famous cheesecake for family and friends or serving her community, Diane approached life with a gentle and giving spirit. Her greatest joy came from time spent with family, and she poured her whole heart into caring for and supporting her children and grandchildren. Her love was steady and unconditional—a constant source of comfort, guidance, and reassurance. Diane’s greatest pride and joy were her grandsons, Matthew and Eric. She loved them with all her heart and was immensely proud of the men they became. They brought endless smiles to her face and joy to her heart. In one of her final conversations, Diane reflected that the greatest gift of her life was simply her “family.” Diane found happiness in life’s simple pleasures. She enjoyed reading books on her Kindle, relaxing on the deck overlooking the lake, spending time with her friends in the ‘Birthday Club’, and taking pontoon rides with family and friends. Diane loved the beauty of the Northwoods – the way the sunlight danced across the water like sparkling diamonds and the peaceful calls of the loons that serenaded her to sleep. These treasured moments reflected the serenity, gratitude, and appreciation she carried throughout her life. A passionate advocate for her community and the natural beauty she so dearly loved, Diane dedicated countless hours to public service and environmental stewardship. She was a member of the Crystal Falls Township Board of Trustees, was a Past Director of the Iron County Lakes and Streams Partnership, the Past President of the Fortune Lake Association, and a member of the Ladies Guild for Guardian Angels Catholic Church. Through her leadership, volunteerism, and commitment to preserving the lakes and environment she cherished, Diane touched countless lives and left a lasting impact on her community. She never sought recognition for her efforts; helping others simply reflected her faith, values, and generous heart. Diane believed deeply in doing what was right for the community, even when the path was difficult. Diane is survived by her loving daughter, Renee’ (Ross) Dettman; her beloved grandsons, Matthew and Eric; her son-in-law, Tom Rankin; and many cherished family members and friends. She was preceded in death by her beloved husband, Deacon Bernie Kut, and her daughter, Pam Kut-Rankin. While our hearts mourn her loss, we are profoundly grateful for the love, faith, wisdom, and memories Diane shared with us. Her legacy of compassion, faith, service, and devotion to her family will live on in all who were privileged to know her. Heaven has welcomed a true hero of the faith, and Diane is now home, reunited at last with Bernie, Pam, and the family members who went before her. We find comfort in knowing that she is at peace, embraced by the eternal love she so faithfully lived and shared. A celebration of Diane’s life will be held on Friday, July 31st from 10:00 – 11:00 am at Nash Funeral Home located at 104 N 3rd St. Crystal Falls MI followed by a Mass at Guardian Angels Catholic Church. To honor Diane’s memory, the family invites those attending her celebration of life to wear pink, her favorite color. Like the color pink, Diane was known for being incredibly compassionate and displayed unconditional love. In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests donations be made to the Crystal Falls St. Vincent de Paul Food Pantry in Diane’s memory. A second celebration of Diane’s life will be held on Monday, August 3rd at Resurrection Cemetery located at 7201 Archer Ave in Justice, IL at 10:30 am. “The greatest gift in her life was her family, and the greatest gift in ours was Diane.”

Diane Kut

November 7, 1939 - July 10, 2026