From the Bakersfield Californian: Diane Patricia Melanson, June 1, 1950 - February 20, 1996
Diane passed away after a lengthy and very couragious battle with lung cancer. In spite of the radiation and many months of chemo and pain she endured, her selflessness and concern for others was a great inspiration to all of us who had the privilege to know and love her and have her in our lives.
She was a loving daughter, sister, wife, mother, aunt, and devoted friend - always there for countless others, lending her support and love in bad times and good times, she was right there for us, and won our hearts.
Diane was born in Mt. Clemens, Michigan, and moved to Bakersfield in 1958. She graduated in 1968 from South High School. She and her husband Steve Melanson celebrated their 26th wedding anniversary on Valentines Day, Feb. 14th.
She was especially devoted to their four children and deeply involved in their various activities throughout their growth and development. All of her family, immediate and extended, were the lucky recipients of her love and support.
She was employed for 16 years at the Bakersfield Police Department, and recently won her deserved promotion to Secretary (Internal Affairs). Here too, the city was lucky to have such a dedicated and loyal employee. She
gave tirelessly of herself to her job and continued giving her concern, love and support to her fellow employees even throughout her illness. She volunteered countless hours of her time and help during her employment to various organizations within the department, always ready to lend her support.
She is survived by her mother Dorothy Nelson; husband Steve Melanson; children: Jerry Melanson and fiance Gabriella Ortiz, Andrea, Donna and Joseph Melanson; sisters Donna Darois Jewell and husband Harold Jewell; Doris Grabo and husband Rick Grabo, Dorine Nelson; brothers Rich Nelson and Bob Nelson; brothers and sisters-in-law Jim and Eulaine Melanson, Eva and Mike Willis, Michelle Melanson; an aunt, and numerous nieces, nephews and cousins.
Diane will be greatly missed by all who loved her. Each of us will always treasure our special memories of her, and will never forget her wonderful spirit, humor and strength.
Brenda Edwards (Hackney)
I didn't know Diane very well, however, she seemed to be very nice. Sorry she has left us.Ethel Wimsett (Landers)
Diane and I remained friends throughout our childbearing years. I remember she and her husband Steve and my husband Gary and I attending our class reunions together. The last one we attended together, I asked her to dance but as she laughed and enjoyed her time I could see her radiation marks through her blouse. She was a brave soldier fighting lung cancer. She'd never smoked. She and Steve and the kids battled cancer together. I remember talking to her after I moved to the coast. By then she was slowing down but totally valuing time with her family, time in her backyard looking at the flowers and listening to the birds. I remember Steve calling and letting me know that Diane had passed peacefully surrounded by he and the kids. I hope the children and Steve have done well after all these years. Diane was a solid friend, a hard-working mother, and she left Steve and her kids far too early. Bless the Melansons.
Linda Cox (Smith)
I always liked Diane Nelson too. She was so sweet. What you saw is what you got. She was never into trying to impress others etc. Either you liked her or you didn't. I had heard that she had cancer & passed away. I'm so glad she met the love of her life when she did & that they had their time together. I'm sure she was a wonderful wife & mother. I too miss her.
Charlane Davis (Hicks)
I really liked Diane. She always had a smile for me, though our conversations were often brief. I found her sweet & kind. I too am grateful she had the opportunity for love & a precious family. We never know what life will offer. I am sorry to learn she had to battle cancer.It is an excruciating battle. The disease takes just too many too soon. I am so grateful she is now at peace & extend my sincere sympathies to her family. My heart goes out to you. God be with each of you.