Diane Lynne Gritton

Diane Lynne (Murphy) Gritton, age 48, passed away peacefully, surrounded by loved ones on March 23, 2014, after a courageous and dignified battle with cancer. She was born to Gladys and James Murphy August 25, 1965, Madison, WI. Diane received her high school diploma from James Madison Memorial High School. In 1985 she married Bruce Gritton and together they raised daughters Alexandria (Alex) and Victoria (Tori) who were born in Washington state. The family moved to Marengo Iowa in 1997. Diane was a devoted mother and an enthusiastic supporter of her daughters, attending nearly every one of their athletic events. After her training as a Certified Nursing Assistant, she worked at a Marengo care facility, as a home Hospice caregiver and as a teachers aide to disabled children. She was intelligent, articulate and loved life with her daughters, family and friends. Diane moved to WI in 2013 to spend more time with her Murphy family. She loved family camping trips, dining out, reading and spending time with loved ones. She gave many a lovable dog and cat the benefit of a loving home. Along with sisters Lisa and Darlene, who family dubbed the three musketeers, she spent many happy hours laughing and recalling the mischievous antics of youth. She adored all her siblings and was appreciated for how she made a point of staying in touch. The Murphy family is grateful to have had this past year to spend extra time with Diane. She will be deeply missed and remembered with love by her daughters Alexandria Lynne and Victoria Rose Gritton, her mother Gladys Murphy, siblings Lisa Murphy (Brian Ewers), Darlene Schmidt (Randy), Patrick Murphy (Patricia), Trish Kocher (Luke), Mike Murphy (Judy) and many nieces, nephews, great nieces and great nephews. She is also survived by her childrens father Bruce Gritton. She was preceded in death by her father James, baby sister Kay Lea Severtson and infant brother Patrick John Murphy. Her family wishes to thank the extended family members and friends who visited Diane and supported her during her lifetime and during her battle with cancer. We also wish to express heartfelt appreciation for the wonderful care and comfort Diane and her family received during Dianes stay at Agrace Hospice in Madison, WI. In lieu of flowers, condolences and memorials to offset final expenses may be sent to: Alexandria or Victoria Gritton 1485 Lafayette Drive Marengo IA 52301