Eleanor Diane Valdez

Eleanor was born in NYC, January 23, 1938, and died October 10, 2023, in her home on Parada Dr., Sun City West, AZ. Diane and her 8 siblings were reared in Farmington, Michigan. She enjoyed the activities her rural home and high school provided. Her popularity in high school as a cheerleader and everyone’s trusted confident was testimonial for her election of Senior Class Homecoming Queen.
Diane married at 17 and her ROTC graduate husband parented 4 children and made their home in Thousand Oaks, California, following intermittent stops along the way. Diane’s care and nurturing of her children included weekly trips to LA for Ballet lessons for the girls and Karate for the boys.
In California, Diane rekindled her Michigan initiated love for horses. Over the years she became an accomplished Equestrian rider and trophied or ribboned a number of times. At one time she owned and trained 5 horses and was an acclaimed riding instructor.
With her second husband, Diane and her horses moved to a ranch in Peoria, AZ. Here, another rekindling occurred as she accepted theatre costuming design and construction appointments. First, with Arizona Broadway Theatre and next with Theatre Works. It was at Theatre Works that she designed and constructed all costumes for the celebrated productions of “The Miracle Worker” and “West Side Story.” She continued her remarkable costuming talent for special events. Her specialty was “women” hats.
Diane is survived by her children, Teresa Evert, Kurt Evert, Kimberly Hayes, Keith Evert, ten grandchildren, one great grandchild, her sibling family of 5 sisters and one brother; and by her loving partner, Don Marine.
Diane was a member of The Unitarian Universalist Church of Surprise and a choir member for more than 20 years. Her artistic talents were seen in her duties as Chairperson of Aesthetics.
A memorial service will be held Saturday, November 4 at 3:00pm.