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Diane Marie (Milliren) Jones, aged 67, ended her battle with cancer on March 11, 2025, surrounded by loved ones at her home in Lindstrom, Minnesota.

Born to parents Wayne and Joyce Milliren on February 20, 1958, in Minneapolis, MN, Diane was the youngest of three daughters. Growing up in New Brighton, in a neighborhood full of boys, her competitive spirit took shape from an early age. She was  a self-proclaimed “Tomboy” and had no trouble keeping up in sports and other activities. Her family called her “Di” but her teachers, coaches, and high school friends called her “Dip.” In her teenage years, Diane was a go getter. She was known in school as being very athletic, social and goofy and had a large circle of friends; ranging from those interested in the arts, to sports, to youth groups and more. She was an overachiever, too, and lettered in tennis, volleyball, basketball, and track at Irondale High School, where she graduated in 1976. She was later inducted into the Irondale Hall of Fame in 2010.

She made lifelong friends at the University of Wisconsin La Crosse, where she graduated with a degree in Physical Education in 1980. She remained very active throughout college, placing nationally in hurdles, and participating in pentathlon and field hockey. In later years, while raising her three boys and working full time, Diane earned her master's degree in education from Saint Mary’s University in Minnesota.

In 1979, she met the love of her life, Steve Jones. They exchanged their vows and were married on April 11, 1981. Diane and Steve began their story living in Fridley, MN where their sons Rick, Brian, and Ross were born. Diane was a dutiful mom who passed on her love of sports and being active to her sons. The boys were encouraged to pursue their interests, no matter how busy it kept them. Her most cherished memories were spent with family on the lake.

Diane worked at Deluxe Check in Arden Hills for 15 years as a corporate writer. After the family moved to Chisago City in 1991, Diane spent three years teaching physical education at PACT Charter School in Anoka. She then went on to pursue her 25 plus-year career as a physical education, health and specialty reading teacher for the North Branch School District. For several years, she coached high school track, as well as middle school volleyball and softball.

Diane’s six grandchildren were the absolute light of her life. She enjoyed their frequent visits and had special relationships with each. She was always engaged, eager to play and nourish their minds and creativity to think outside the box. Her encouragement, care, and love was second to none.

Diane was a diehard Minnesota sports fan and had a contagious love for life. She played softball into her fifties, golfed until this past summer, and never missed an opportunity to be on the lake. Diane had an amazing group of friends and enjoyed time spent with them in book club, on various athletic teams, and traveling. She was active at Zion Lutheran Church, participating in the funeral ministry and bible study. She was also engaged in the community: delivering Meals on Wheels in the Chisago Lakes Area and stocking books for the Little Free Library program.

Diane was preceded in death by her parents Wayne and Joyce Milliren. She is survived by her husband Steve; sons Rick (Betsy) Jones, Brian (Nikki) Jones, and Ross (Breanne) Jones; grandchildren Jonas, Judah, Jeremiah, Parker, Madeline, and Harrison; sisters Linda (Jerry) Severt and Nancy (David) Burdick; many nieces, nephews, and cousins; and a large extended family.

The funeral will be held Friday, March 21 at 11 a.m. at Zion Evangelical Lutheran Church, 28005 Old Towne Road, Chisago City, MN, with visitation the night before from 4-6 p.m., as well as the hour before the funeral. Burial will take place immediately after the service at Green Lake Cemetery in Chisago City. Lunch will be served at Zion following the burial. In lieu of flowers, memorials are preferred to Dakota Boys and Girls Ranch, the American Cancer Society, and St. Jude Children’s Hospital.

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