Diane Lee Cavanaugh (Graham), 76, passed away on October 9, 2024, in West Des Moines, Iowa. Born on April 14, 1948, in Cedar Falls, Iowa, Diane attended grade school and high school in Hudson, Iowa. Upon graduation, Diane moved to Des Moines to attend the American Institute of Business. Diane dedicated 40 years of her career to the Principal Financial Group in downtown Des Moines, retiring in 2007.
Diane spent her life nurturing her family, contributing to her community, and bringing joy to everyone she met. Her commitment to service extended beyond her professional life, as she was an avid volunteer at Hospice and Al-Anon, met many friends at Beginning Experience, and participated actively in her church, Sacred Heart, in West Des Moines.
Known for her vibrant and supportive personality, Diane was a pillar of strength and warmth. An enthusiastic Iowa State Cyclones fan, she never missed a chance to cheer for her team. Diane's love for life was evident in her hobbies, which included golfing, biking, hiking, working out, water aerobics, yoga, and spending winters in warmer climates! She cherished her time with her family and friends, whether it was babysitting her grandchildren, having lunch with friends, playing Mexican dominoes, or attending her book club.
Diane was an incredible and loving mother to her two sons, Brandon Cavanaugh (Whitney) and Aaron Cavanaugh (Taylor), and a proud and engaged grandmother to Sloan, Paige, Henry, Everett, and Neely. She is also survived by her brother, Kirk Graham (Polly), and sisters, Wendy Sywassink (Daryl), and Ann Schrader (Tom), and many nieces and nephews. She was preceded in death by her parents, Earl Lyle Graham, Jr. and Betha Eleanor Wyatt, her brother Lon Lyle Graham, and her niece, Katie Schrader.
A Celebration of Life will be held to honor her memory and the specific date and time will be listed on the website of McLaren’s in West Des Moines. Diane's life was a testament to her loving nature and her lasting impact on those around her will be cherished forever.
Memorials may be made to Every Step Hospice, or the Alzheimer’s Association.
