Diane Kounkoulas Peterson

She was born on August 30, 1953 in Littleton, NH to Faith (Colby) and Nicholas Kounkoulas. She loved growing up in Littleton, and especially her years living, and causing trouble, on Herbert Lane. She graduated valedictorian of Littleton High School in 1971 and went on to attend Bates College in Lewiston, Maine. It was here that she met her husband of 44 years, John, knowing instantly he was the one when he smiled at her across the cafeteria. They got married in 1977 and moved to Loudon, where they played volleyball and raised their family.

Diane received her MBA from UNH in 1979, then worked for the state of NH in Concord for over 40 years. She took great pride in her career as a Medicaid Policy Administrator for the Department of Health and Human Services. When she wasn't working, she could most likely be found at her second home at Concord Dance Academy - taking classes, writing notes on the dance steps to share with others, helping out in the classes her daughter taught, or planning costume pieces for recital and competition. At these events, when she wasn't dancing herself, she was backstage making sure everyone got where they were supposed to be, and had everything they needed to perform their best.

Though she had many hobbies and interests, there was nothing she loved more than spending time with her daughters, aka "her girls", Ellen and Anna. There were endless shopping outings at Target, trips to York Beach, days by the pool, and nights watching the Bachelor and eating pizza. She was a wonderful example of a selfless and hardworking mother, and will be greatly missed.

Diane is survived by her husband John, her daughters Ellen and Anna and their partners Alex Browning and Dave Bednar, mother Faith Kounkoulas of Whitefield, sister Carol and husband John Swedberg of Meredith, and many nieces, nephews, siblings in law, and friends.

The family wants to thank all of the people who spent the past year sending flowers, cards, gifts, and meals, and especially doctor Mary Jo DiMilia, who provided hope and support and gave her more time on Earth.

In lieu of flowers, we ask that you plant a beautiful perennial in her honor, enjoy a scoop (or 2!) of ice cream at Jordan's, or make a donation to the NH Humane Society, or The Musella Foundation for Brain Tumor Research & Information.

A private burial will take place at Blossom Hill Cemetary in Concord, with a public celebration of life to follow at a later date.

Fond memories and expressions of sympathy may be shared at www.bennettfuneral.com for the Peterson family.