Diana was born on Sept. 29, 1947, in Pasco, Wash. She had been a resident since 1973 and lived in Anchor Point. She lived in Fairbanks from 1973 to 1974, Homer from 1974 to 1981, Anchor Point from 1981 to 2003, and the assisted living home from 2003 to 2004.

Diana worked as a dental assistant and secretary for Dr. James Meesis in Fairbanks and moved to Homer in October 1974 when he opened his office there. She also tended bar and for the past 20 years was a homemaker. Diana was a member of the ladies auxiliary of VFW Post 10221 in Anchor Point.

Diana's family states, "Diana first moved to Alaska in 1959 when her father was stationed at Elmendorf AFB and she always dreamt of returning." Diana had an adventurous spirit. From sky diving to motorcycle riding. She also loved to fish. Despite chronic illness she always had a sense of humor. Diana's husband of 20 years states, "Without a doubt Diana was one of the strongest persons I have ever met."

Diana is survived by her husband of 20 years, Mike Dalton; stepchildren Vonnell Nelson, Michele Chauez, Colleen Dalton and Patrick Dalton; sisters Connie Collier of Santa Marie, Calif., Debbie Malone of Farmington, N.M. and Lynn Marquez of Lake Oswego, Ore. And brother Michael Hickey of Vancouver, Wash.

She was Preceded in death by her mother Eldoro and her father Jerry M. Hickey of Albuquerque, N.M.

Arrangements were made by Witzleben Family Funeral Homes.