Wini was born on July 3, 1931, in Danville, Illinois to Walter and Freda (Sy) Stuebe. Wini was the youngest of four girls and graduated from Danville High School, Class of 1949. She was an active and excellent student, highlighted by her participation in the DHS Chorus, A Cappella, newspaper and yearbook staff, and leading roles in various musicals. She was also an accomplished pianist.
Upon graduation, Wini was employed with General Electric in Danville. During this time, she discovered she was the romantic target of David L. Divan, also a graduate of the Class of 1949. Dave’s admiration of Wini’s inner and outer beauty, caring, happy and fun-loving personality led to their 70 years of marriage. The journey began when Dave entered the United States Air Force moving them to Ft. Worth, Texas and Limestone, Maine. College for Dave with hard working Wini by his side took them to Bloomington-Normal, Illinois and then back to Danville. The next adventure occurred when Dave entered the F.B.I moving them to New Orleans, then Tulsa, Boston, Washington D.C, and finally American Airlines brought them to Dallas, Texas. With every move, Wini was able to continue her career with various administrative positions, raise three children, and make every house a loving home. With all of the transitions there was never a complaint or worry from Wini as she took on any challenge with grace and class.
Wini will be remembered for many wonderful attributes - among them, her ability to play her beloved baby grand piano and singing. She loved hosting friends and family gathering at home for parties, singing and playing games. Euchre, the card game, was a regular part of Divan game nights and Wini’s euchre skills were well-known, especially by those who had her as a partner.
She was an excellent cook, kept a spotless household, could mend anyone’s wounds or medical issues as long as she could find her “vicks” jar. She made the world a better place because she loved people and cared for them, generously donating to anyone in need.
Wini’s greatest focus was always on family, never missing a birthday or special occasion. Her love for her kids, grandkids, great grandkids, and extended family was always top priority. If you wanted to strike up a conversation with Wini, at any time, just ask about her family.
Wini is preceded in death by her parents Freda and Walter Stuebe, sister Maxine Reich, brother-in-law Fred Reich, sister Fern Cline, brother-in-law Verl Cline, and nephew James Cline, sister-in-law Esther Strader, brother-in-law Robert Strader, brother-in-law Walter Divan, sister-in-law Peggy Divan, nephew Stephen Divan, brother-in-law Richard Stewart.
Wini will be lovingly remembered by husband David L. Divan, daughter Julie (Steve) Mercer of Franklin, TN, son David M. Divan of Las Colinas, TX, daughter Nicole (Drew) Nolan of Rogers, AR; by her grandchildren, Kate (Guy) Carden, Michael Mercer, Allie (Kyle) Lessmiller, Kylie Nolan, Parker Nolan; by her great grandchildren, Avery Carden, Payton Carden, Colton Holmes, MacKenzie Lessmiller, Norah Lessmiller; sister Virginia Stuebe, sister-in-law Virginia Stewart, sister-in-law Debbie Divan; seven nieces, three nephews, numerous great nieces and nephews and friends.
Everyone who knew Wini, loved her. She will forever be missed, and her family and friends will cherish their many wonderful memories of her.
