September 1, 1923 – June 12, 2022

It is with numerous emotions (now Britishly permitted) that the family of Diane sadly announce that she has decided not to wait for the 100 year salutation from HRH Queen Elizabeth, but rather to depart.
Born Olive Mollie Reed September 1, 1923 at Blakeney, Norfolk, England, daughter of Alice Reed.
Diane “alias” Olive Mollie lost her mother at the tender age of 17 in World War II. As she had no siblings, Diane’s family were aunts, uncles and cousins – a few of whom she lived with.
During World War II she joined the Royal Artillery, serving as an aircraft spotter.
As time away from duty was for socializing, the girls attended dances. There they met soldiers, both domestic and from the Colonies. If wishing to remain incognito, young ladies often gave an “adopted” name in order to thwart unsuitables. Thus Olive Mollie became “Diane”. However, one soldier of fortune saw through the ruse and simply followed her home – several times.
The Colonial soldier, Jay Hawthorne and Olive Mollie Reed were married at Sunningdale, Berkshire May 15, 1943.
Whether it be for penance or peeve, Olive Mollie was referred to Diane thereafter.
Imagine the trepidation that a War Bride felt covering the Atlantic by ship (Aquitania) in 1946, arriving at Pier 21 in Halifax, then boarding a train to cross much of Canada to Calgary where her husband of 3 years awaited. They had seen little of each other during the war as they were sent to different countries. 2 years after arriving in Calgary (1946 population nearing 100,000), they moved to a farm near Torrington (population 402). Was life interesting? Coal and wood for heat, coal oil lanterns (no power until 1957) and running water involved fast footwork. They tilled the soil and raised 5 ruddy little Colonists. After the 5th child, communication was re-established and the understanding was that there were in fact 2 meanings of the word “pedology” (and besides, they finally sired their long desired daughter – “4 hits and a Miss” Dad said). The farm was sold. The family moved to Milk River. No more dirt farming, no additional children. Diane and Jay operated Macleod’s (hardware) Store at Milk River and later at Claresholm during the 1960s and yearly 70s.
Please note that Diane (aka Olive Mollie) was cleared of any wrong doing “investigate absolvere” with regards to sale of firearms from the store to culprits who later held up the Woodhouse store. However in England, Mother was an outstanding felon who failed to pay her fine. She had been deemed guilty of speeding on her bicycle. 
Retirement in 1975 meant more time to volunteer at the Anglican Church, Royal Canadian Legion (no – not just imbibing), Alberta Senior Games (for which they won many medals), Meals on Wheels, Terry Fox Run for over 20 years and raising more than $66K. Mother painted both walls and canvas, was an avid coin and stamp collector and submitted designs for stamps and coins. She was a formidable opponent at crib (especially against Dad). Many fishing expeditions ensued. Wagers for first fish, biggest fish and most fish were usually won by Mother – as most fish were released, Father had little chance. After her beloved husband moved to the Willow Creek (WCCCC) (where he passed away in 2010), Mother moved to the Cottonwood. After a few falls and a broken hip she also moved to the WCCCC where “They treat me like gold.” Many, many thanks to the folks at the WCCCC. You are so appreciated!!!
Diane is survived by her children, Wayne (Marilyn), Eric, Reed (Deb), Andrea Lynn (James); six grandchildren, 10 great grandchild, and two great-great grandsons. Diane was predeceased by her husband Jay, and son Kerry (Donna) and will be immensely missed by ALL.