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Diana Jane Marsh, 88, of New Richmond, WI, passed away peacefully at home on October 3, 2026, to be with Jesus. Diana was born December 6, 1937, in Jamestown, NY, to Donald S. Appleyard and Ruth (Dearing) Appleyard.
Diana grew up on Lake Chautauqua, NY, and cherished her summers spent at the cottage, where she loved spending time with her siblings. Her children would later grow to love and treasure their own times there as well. She graduated from Jamestown High School in 1956 and loved that Lucille Ball had graduated from the same school—there were even pictures of Lucille in the hallways! She went on to attend Kendall College in Illinois, where she met Toby Marsh. They were married for 69 years and were blessed with five children. As Diana raised her family in New Richmond, she and Toby would travel by car with their five children every other year to visit family back in Jamestown and Mayville, NY.
Diana loved her flower gardens, reading, knitting, painting, doing puzzles, and having daily coffee with neighbors. For many years, she and Kathy Lyksett Jones went on long walks together. She played in the local Women’s golf league in town and also joined a league down south after retirement, though she would readily tell you she went for the joy of being with friends, not for the love of golf.
After retirement, Diana and Toby loved spending their winter months down south, especially enjoying visits from their children and going on many adventures together. She dedicated many years to volunteering in a 5th-grade classroom, both before heading south for the winter and upon her return—students loved her and would often run up to hug her whenever they saw her in public. She also generously volunteered her time at the Westfields Hospital Gift Shop, the Two Fish Clothing Center, the Five Loaves Food Shelf, and on the Hospitality Team at Faith Community Church.
When she could no longer attend services in person, she and Toby faithfully tuned into the church livestream each week. Up until two weeks ago, they continued to enjoy hosting a weekly Bible study in their home with their cherished small group. Her family will deeply miss her sweet nature, firecracker personality, and quick wit.
Diana is survived by her loving husband of 69 years, Toby William Marsh; her children, Cathy (Dennis) DeMar of River Falls, WI, Mark (Peggy) Marsh of Corcoran, MN, Ted (RaeJean) Marsh of Ellsworth, WI, Joel (Heidi) Marsh of New Richmond, WI, and Cindy (Pat) Mork of Dresser, WI; grandchildren, Cristi (Craig) Burton, Billy (Melissa) DeMar, Kurt (Katie) Marsh, Greg (Clara) Marsh, Elise Marsh, Kevin Marsh, Sarah Marsh, Anthony Marsh, Manessah Myrum, Leah (Nathan) Finstad, Danielle (Tom) Boettcher, David Gertz, Amanda (James) Hansen, Matthew Marsh, Heather (Ben) Knegendorf, Ben (Amber) Marsh, Ashley (Nick) Seifert, Justin Mork, and Allison Mork; 31 great-grandchildren; one great-great-grandchild (with another due to arrive soon!); her brother, Joe (Joan) Appleyard; sister-in-law, Evva Kelcher; and many beloved nieces and nephews.
She was preceded in death by her parents, Donald and Ruth Appleyard; her parents-in-law, Waldo and Florence Marsh; step-mother-in-law, Rosemary (Driscoll) Marsh; and sisters, Pat (Dick) Parker and Nancy (John) Luensman.
A Celebration of Life for Diana will be held on October 12, 2026 at Faith Community Church in New Richmond, WI. Visitation begins at 2:00 PM, followed by the service at 3:00 PM, a light lunch at 4:00 PM, and the cemetery interment to follow. Arrangements are with Bakken-Young Funeral & Cremation Services.
7 Comments
My condolences go out to the whole family. Diane was a great person. She lived a well life. I am so sorry to hear about Diane. Makes me sad.
Condolences to Toby and the Marsh family. Bob Brown.
It’s so hard to lose your mom. Sending love to my cousins and their families. Extra love to Uncle Toby. So many good memories of your visits to Chautauqua Lake.
Diana was a great person I have known her since I was 3 years old her daughter Cathy and I were best friends growing up on the Northside of New Richmond. I know she will be missed. Hugs to Cathy and her family❤️
Our most sincere condolences to the Marsh family.
Diana and I were golf partners on the Doboy League. She taught me a lot at work and golf. She will be missed.
To all my cousins and Uncle Toby, you are in my thoughts and prayers. I am so sorry for your loss. It was a blessing that Aunt Diana got to talk with my Dad the day before her passing. Remembering the good times at the lake with all the family together. Rest in peace Aunt Diana you were truly loved.
My deepest condolences to Pastor Ted, RaeJean and the Marsh family. May God give you, all, the peace that passes all understanding. It’s not easy losing Mom, but the LORD will get you through it. My love to you all. Judy Hisle
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