BOMBER MEMORIAL

JOHN IVAN DIEHL ~ Class of 1965
March 29, 1947 - October 11, 2024



John Ivan Diehl, born on March 29, 1947, in Martinsville, Virginia, passed away on October 11, 2024. Shortly after his birth, his family relocated to Richland where John grew up.

He graduated with the Class of 1965 from Richland's Columbia High School, where he was actively involved in the Civil Air Patrol, serving as a Sergeant at the Richland Airfield.

John proudly served his country in the United States Air Force, completing two deployments during the Vietnam War and attaining the rank of Sergeant. Upon returning home, he began working at the Hanford nuclear site while attending Columbia Basin College.

He married Marion Perkins ('65) on October 3, 1966. The marriage ended in a divorce on April 13, 1971. He then married Gloria Dee Thomas ('65) on June 18, 1971.

John was the father of three children: Darcei Renee Allstead, John Thomas Diehl, and Sarah Jacqueline Jennings. He devoted his life to supporting and raising his family.

He was preceded in death by his beloved daughter, Darcei Renee Allstead; his wife, Gloria ('65), who passed away on August 12, 1978; as well as his parents, John George Cleon Diehl and Mary Helen Diehl; and his brother, Robert Cleon Diehl.

John is survived by his sister, Patricia Deaton-Hack; his son, John Thomas Diehl; his daughter, Sarah Jacqueline (Diehl) Jennings; and eight grandchildren, as well as numerous great-grandchildren.

He lived a rich and fulfilling life, filled with a deep love for fishing, hunting, and the great outdoors. He valued his many friendships, especially with Rod Thorne and Jerry Lang.

John will be remembered for his warmth, dedication to his family, and the lifelong friendships he held close. He was a life member of the VFW Post 7952.

A graveside service will be held at 11am on Thursday, October 17, 2024, at Sunset Gardens.

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File put together by Shirley COLLINGS Haskins ('66).