Diane Catherine Mizenko

An elegant and graceful woman she was sometimes affectionately referred to as Lady Di. Her children were her life and she focused herself on providing them every opportunity possible. Diane was a Den Mother, Room Mother, Swim Mom, Musician Mom, Dance Mom, Golf Mom and PTA President. She was frequently seen driving the green Country Squire Station Wagon, taking her kids from activity to activity. Being very crafty, she made macramé plant holders, shell flower baskets and every Christmas Santa candy jars as gifts for her children’s school teachers. As a dedicated grandmother, she continued to provide opportunities to the next generation.

Diane was a fierce competitor in the bowling alley and on the tennis court and knew how to hold court at the Walden Swimming Pool. Known for her wit and frankness, she had the ability to size up a situation in a heartbeat!

She loved watching sports, especially professional football, beginning with the Cleveland Browns, and then later her Tampa Bay Bucs! Once, while sharing a hotel room with her daughter, Diane stayed up until 2:00 am to see how an Olympic volleyball match turned out.

Diane loved orchids, chocolate, sunny days and tacos with extra sour cream!

Diane was preceded in death by her parents, Leonard and Diane Gille; and siblings, Raymond Gillie, Phyllis Campese and Freddie Gillie.

She is survived by her husband, Donald Fausett; children, John Mizenko (Lynn), Michael Mizenko, Mark Mizenko, and Jennifer Mizenko; grandchildren, Patrick, Mac, Ben, Alex, and Johnny; and great-grandchildren, Ella, Hunter and Rory.

In her memory, hold your children tightly, see their potential, provide opportunities and nurture their growth.

We love you mom!

A graveside service will be held on Monday, November 13, 2023, at 11:00 am, at Palms Memorial Park, 170 Honore Avenue in Sarasota. Following the service, a reception will be held from 11:30 am – 1:30 pm at Robert Toale and Sons Funeral Home at Palms Memorial Park.