Diane Christine Aitken

Diane Christine Aitken (Nee Newton)

June 14, 1942-October 5, 2023

It is with the heaviest of hearts that we announce the passing of Diane Christine Aitken (nee Newton) of Carberry, Manitoba on October 5, 2023 at the age of 81 surrounded by her family and their love.

Diane was born in Calgary, Alberta on June 14, 1942 to Ralph and Dorothy Newton. She was the first of three daughters for the Newtons. After the war ended, Ralph and Dorothy moved to Cartwright, Manitoba where they raised their family. Diane attended school in Cartwright and grade 12 in Killarney where she graduated. She was involved in many activities while growing up such as teaching 4H sewing, baseball, CGIT and became an accomplished piano player. After graduation, Diane attended Secretarial School in Winnipeg. In her teen years she also worked at the family store in Cartwright, Newton’s Department Store alongside her mom and dad.

In October of 1963, Diane married Donald Stein of Rolla, North Dakota. In May of 1965, Don tragically passed away as a result of a car accident. Their daughter, Dixie Anne was born the following month in June. When Dixie was six months of age Diane began her LPN training at St. Boniface in Winnipeg. Upon completion of the program, she worked at Killarney Hospital. Diane was supported as a single mother by her parents, Don’s parents and her family.

In time, a relationship with her high school sweetheart and long-time friend, Dale Aitken was rekindled and they married on November 8, 1967. Dale and Diane had a long, solid and loving marriage of almost 56 years. Dale and Diane welcomed Danny to the family in August 1968, then Darcy in May 1973.

Dale’s career in the RCMP meant the family moved and settled in several communities in Saskatchewan and Manitoba. Diane was an expert at organizing the moves and settling new homes while Dale would settle into the new postings. During these moves, countless friendships were formed, many of which continue today.

Diane was talented and learned many skills in her lifetime. There was very little that she wasn’t willing to try. Diane sewed for the family as they were growing up and we wore some amazing and durable Fortrel outfits. Later she sewed for fun. She learned many other crafts over the years as well. Like so many people in the 70’s, she enjoyed doing ceramics. She enjoyed it so much that she bought a kiln and set up a workshop in her home to teach classes and techniques.

Diane resumed her nursing career in 1977 while still in Saskatchewan. After the move to Carberry in 1978, she began working as an LPN at Fox Memorial Hospital and PCH. Diane was an excellent nurse. She attended many births, tended to the sick, and held hands of those who needed. Diane was attentive and caring to all. She worked along some of the finest in the profession and was held in high regard for her strong work ethic.

Diane was an expert in the home. She managed the household with what seemed like ease to the rest of us. She was organized and prepared for anything. She hosted countless holidays and special occasions over the years and company was always treated very well. Dale and Diane’s home was open to anyone and last-minute drop ins were always welcome.

Diane’s interests and activities usually revolved around the family. She cheered on many hockey games, attended ball games, ballet recitals, plays and many other events. When her grandchildren’s activities began, she rarely missed any of those as well. Diane was also an avid curler, golfer and enjoyed her garden. She supported her community by serving on a variety of committees. Diane and Dale enjoyed travelling and, in their retirement, spent extended periods of time as snowbirds.

We will miss her sense of humour which could be considered somewhat warped (a trait passed on to her children and grandchildren). Our family often found themselves in ridiculous antics which would lead Diane to uncontrollable laughter, wheezing and tears.

We will miss Diane beyond belief. She led by example that we should be prepared for anything and yet be flexible, be organized, make lists, and always have a back up plan. Diane’s strong work ethic showed us that we could power through anything and we could do hard things. Her love was unconditional and no matter what the problem was, a solution could be found. Above all, she was a good listener and offered advice if we asked for it.

Diane was predeceased by her parents, Dorothy and Ralph Newton, her infant grandson Taylor, her first husband, Don, mother and father in-law, Harold and Eileen Aitken, sister-in-law Sharon Moore, brother-in-law Ross Aitken, and numerous aunts and uncles.

Left to mourn Diane’s passing are her beloved husband Dale, daughter Dixie (Ken), grandchildren Kelley and Brett (Kalla), son Daniel (Natalie), granddaughters Reece and Reegan, son Darcy (Robyn), grandsons Jory and Kylan. Also left to mourn are sisters Donna Boyd (Bob) and family and Billie Newton and family, brother-in-law Jim Moore. Diane will be missed by all her dear friends. Diane and Dale’s little dog, Abby remains as Dale’s faithful companion.

A family graveside gathering will take place on Friday, October 13, 2023 at the Cartwright Cemetery. If friends so desire, memorial donations can be made to The Carberry and Area Community Foundation or the Carberry North Cypress-Langford Health Action Committee.

“Grief can take care of itself, but to get the full value of joy you must have someone to divide it with.” Mark Twain