Obituary

In Loving Memory of Audrey Joanna (Joan) Diener

January 29, 1934 – February 4, 2025

With heavy hearts, we announce the passing of Audrey Joanna (Joan) Diener of Penticton, who went to be with her Lord and Savior on February 4, 2025, at the age of 91. A devoted wife, mother, grandmother, great-grandmother, and friend, Joan’s life was a testament to faith, love, and service. Born on January 29, 1934, in Kincaid, Saskatchewan, Joan was raised in a warm and loving Christian home by her wonderful parents, Matthew and Elizabeth Little. Growing up on a farm north of Meyronne alongside her three brothers and twin sister, she developed a strong sense of family and faith. Joan attended Glenarchy Rural School and Meyronne High School before making a life-changing decision at the age of 15 to follow Jesus. Soon after, she enrolled at Caronport High School on the campus of Briercrest Bible Institute, where she graduated in 1952. She went on to complete her studies at Briercrest Bible Institute in 1955, laying the foundation for a life of service and compassion.

During her early years, Joan worked summers at the T.B. Sanatorium in Fort Qu’Appelle, Saskatchewan, and later built a career spanning approximately 13 years in Insurance and Investments, followed by 27 years in the medical field in both Edmonton and Penticton. On October 3, 1964, Joan married the love of her life, Reine Diener, at Ebenezer Baptist Church in Saskatoon. Together, they built a life centered on faith and family, welcoming their son, Grant Alan, in 1967, and later adopting their beloved daughter, Kimberley Ruth, in 1970. Joan wholeheartedly supported Reine’s pastoral calling, leading them to serve in Summerland, BC, Paradise Valley, Alberta before settling in Penticton in 1979. Wherever they went, Joan’s kindness, warmth, and unwavering faith touched the lives of those around her.

Joan was predeceased by her parents, Matthew and Elizabeth Little, as well as her brothers Robert, David, and Brian. She leaves behind her devoted husband of 60 years, Reine; her cherished children, Kim Lipsack (Sam) and Grant Diener; her treasured grandchildren, Morgen Lipsack, Savannah Lipsack (Joshua Roth), and Bianca Demay (Paul); and her precious great-grandchildren, Eleanor and Holly Demay. A celebration of Joan’s life will be held on Saturday, February 22, 2025, at 11:00 AM at Penticton First Baptist Church, 1498 Government Street, with Pastor Clark Taylor officiating. 

Joan’s legacy of love, faith, and kindness will forever be remembered by all who knew her.