Diane Boeckman, age 87, a resident of Manitowoc, entered eternal life on Saturday, October 18, 2025, at the Manitowoc Health and Rehabilitation Center.
Diane was born on March 13, 1938, in Two Rivers, Wisconsin, the first child of the late Harry and Leona (Roth) Gesell. She attended Washington High School in Two Rivers, graduating with the Class of 1956. Following high school, Diane earned her Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) certification from the Milwaukee Institute of Technology.She began her nursing career in St. Petersburg, Florida, before returning to Manitowoc, where she worked at Memorial Hospital until starting her family. On April 25, 1964, she married Donald Boeckman at St. Luke’s Catholic Church in Two Rivers. Together, they shared a life filled with love, hard work, and community service.Diane devoted herself to caring for her family and the many children she lovingly watched over throughout the years. Later in life, she and Don volunteered at the Manitowoc Health and Rehabilitation Center with the Angel Association, tending to the greenhouse and mending clothes for residents.
A talented and creative spirit, Diane enjoyed knitting, crocheting, sewing, quilting, and cake decorating—crafting beautiful wedding, birthday, and graduation cakes that brought joy to family and friends. Above all, she cherished time spent with her loved ones.
She is survived by her three children: Faye Boeckman of Carlsbad, CA; Lee Boeckman and Tom Boeckman, both of Manitowoc; and one granddaughter, Giselle, of Carlsbad, CA; along with other relatives and friends. She was preceded in death by her husband, Donald; her parents, Harry and Leona Gesell; her brothers, Gary and Glen Gesell; and an infant son, Brian.
A funeral service will be held at 3:00 PM on Monday, October 27, 2025, at the Harrigan Parkside Funeral Home, officiated by Deacon Alan Boeldt. Entombment will follow at Knollwood Mausoleum. Relatives and friends may call at the funeral home on Monday from 2:00 PM until the time of service. Following the service, light refreshments will be served at the Harrigan Parkside Gathering Center located on the south side of the funeral home property.
Online condolences may be sent to the family at www.harriganparksidefuneralhome.com.
The Harrigan Parkside Funeral Home and Crematory, North 11th and St. Clair Streets, Manitowoc, is assisting the family with arrangements.
