Diana Zheuhua Artz-Iffland

ARTZ-IFFLAND, DIANA ZHENHUA Kalamazoo, MI Passed over August 7, 2012 at Rose Arbor Hospice. Diana was born on Sept 23, 1948 in Morgantown, WV to Don Charles and Mary Jane (Sparks) Iffland. She earned her BS from WMU and her MS in Nutrition from MSU. Diana worked 25 years for Kalamazoo County, WIC, first as a Nutritionist, then as Supervisor before she retired. Surviving are three daughters, Annalaura (Chris) Solomon of Provo, UT, SuLan and LiMin of Kalamazoo, her life partner of 35 years, K River Artz-Iffland, her parents, her sister, Charis (Kyle) Austin of Grand Rapids, MI, a host of sisters-in-law and brothers-in-law, nieces and nephews, including Scott and Brittany (Dotson) Austin, and cousins, and many good friends and chosen family. She was preceded in death by her Aunt Margaret and Uncle WIlliam (Sparks) Orange and Uncle Richard Lepley. In her younger days, Diana enjoyed canoeing, hiking and bicycling. Diana enjoyed gourmet cooking, trying new recipes, singing in choirs, playing folk harp, and Scrabble. Diana explored many spiritual paths and practices, until People's Church became her spiritual home. She was a gracious, gentle presence. Her smile made people feel welcome and appreciated, which brought out the best in people. She believed that we are agents of grace for each other. Diana coped with MS for many years until a brief struggle with Melanoma called her to spirit. Cremation was arranged by Avink Funeral Home. Celebration of Diana's life will be at People's Church, 1758 N 10th St on Aug 15, 2012 at 11a.m., followed by a reception. Condolences may be posted at www.avinkcrematiom.com Memorials may be made to her daughters' college funds or to charity of your choice .