Diane Frances Kolisz
April 26, 1947 - September 3, 2026
Diane Frances Kolisz, age 79, of Middletown, DE, passed away on Thursday, September 3, 2026.
Born in Yonkers, NY on April 26, 1947, she was a daughter of the late Edward M. and Isabelle J. (DeRoberts) Carroll. Diane graduated from Sacred Heart High School in Yonkers, NY in 1965. While in high school, Diane joined the Civil Air Patrol at the request of her best friend—a decision that led her to meet the love of her life, Walter. After high school Diane earned a degree from Berkeley Collegr in 1966. Over the years, Diane worked for Pepperidge Farm, General Foods, Cornell Hospital, IBM, and The Tarrytown House Estate, spending most of her career as a property manager. Following her marriage, she moved to Irvington, NY, where she and Walter raised their two children. Upon her retirement in 2003, they moved to Middletown, DE, and built their dream home.
In Delaware, Diane was an active member of both the Delaware Republican Club and the Delaware Women’s Republican Club, serving as a delegate for several elections. While living in Bayberry South, she coordinated various community clubs, including her favorite, Mahjong. She was also a devout member of St. Margaret of Scotland Church in Glasgow, DE, since 2003.
Diane is survived by her loving husband of 59 years, Walter Frank Kolisz; her daughter, Janene; her son, Edward, and his wife, Nupur; her three cherished grandchildren, Justin, Sophia, and Ryan; her sister, Barbara Coughlin, and her husband, Thomas; her brother, William Carroll, and his wife, Rosa; as well as many beloved nieces, nephews, and extended family members.
Diane found much joy and pride in her grandchildren and their many accomplishments. Their time together was always cherished. Every occasion was celebrated with weeks of planning around the food she made for the family. Justin, Sophia, and Ryan always looked forward to going to her home for her delicious lasagna and other homemade favorites. They also enjoyed all the different dessert selections she would provide, in addition to the bowls of candy that could always be found around the house.
A visitation for family and friends will be held from 10 am until 11 am on Thursday, September 10, 2026, at St. Margaret of Scotland Parish, 2431 Frazer Road, Newark, DE, where a Mass of Christian Burial will be offered at 11 am. Interment will follow in All Saints Cemetery, 6001 Kirkwood Highway, Wilmington, DE.
In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the Little Sisters of the Poor, 185 Salem Church Road, Newark, DE 19713, or online by clicking here.
Timothy Pike
I would like to offer my condolences to the family. To be honest, I’ve only met the deceased once. This only time was at the wedding of Ed and Nupar. You see, I met Ed in college and we continue to talk to this day. In fact, I spoke with him while driving down to be with his parents when his mom took a turn for the worse. I’ve never met someone so well rounded as Ed, reading his mom’s obituary I see where those qualities were inspired by. R.I.P
Caren Sterner
Ed & family, our deepest condolences on the loss of your mom. May the wonderful memories you have of her bring you comfort during this difficult time.
Phyllis mansa
So sorry for your loss Lady Di was a kind caring loving person to all she will be missed but the family will have many wonderful memories that they will always keep close to there hearts!!! Rest in peace 🙏🙏
Liz Weiss
So sorry Walter. She was an amazing pinochle player and always ready to help new players with tips. She will be missed.
Carolyn and Jeff Simon
Ed, Nupur, Sophia and Ryan, So sorry to hear of your mom’s passing! He all sound like you have wonderful, wonderful memories of her that will help you during this difficult. time. she will last in your hearts forever! She sounds like she was a great woman and will be missed by many! Rest in peace, Mrs. Kolisz!😇❤️
Marie marx
Diane has been a friend since we moved into bayberry. She was in charge of different game at clubhouse. she said what is was and very funny. She suffered and is now at peace.Walter was a loving husband
Lynn & David Olkowski
We absolutely loved Diane and have lots of fond memories working our church bazaars all those years together! Walt, we wish we could pay our respects in person. Please know you and your family are in our hearts and prayers at this difficult time. You both were so generous, gracious and kind and we are blessed to know you!
With affection,
Lynn & Dave Olkowski
Lynne Stankus
So sorry to lose Diane, Walter. She was a friend and a good neighbor. We will all miss her!
Roberta Marquez
My condolences to the kolisz family on the loss of your beloved mother, Diane. May memories of her give you the strength to carry on during these difficult times. I will miss you so much, my dear Diane—and the smile with which you welcomed me whenever I visited. Rest in peace