Diana Lynn (Karkanen) Hendrix

Diana Lynn Hendrix (Karkanen), age 69, passed away peacefully on June 29, 2025, in Missoula, Montana, surrounded by her loving family.

Diana was born on January 25, 1956, in Missoula to Arne and Kathryn “Kay” Karkanen. She was the youngest of four siblings: Bonnie, Betty Jo, and Bill. Diana shared an incredibly close bond with her mother — in adulthood, they were best friends and spent much of their time together.

On July 13, 1985, Diana married the love of her life, John “Porky” Hendrix. In 1986, they welcomed their son Will, who joined his siblings Frank and Jacinda to complete their family of five. She was proudly and lovingly known as “Mom” by each of them.

She worked at Champion and the Stimson lumber mill, and later at Bonner School.

In her quieter moments, Diana enjoyed watching chateau and other homesteading videos. She also loved watching her husband and children play softball. Over the years, her home was filled with the companionship of many beloved dogs, each one holding a special place in her heart.

Diana was a gentle, calm, and kind presence — a grounding balance to Porky’s famously loud and boisterous nature. While his booming voice filled every room, her peaceful demeanor created a natural harmony. Throughout her life, her deepest bonds were with her mother, her sister Betty Jo, Porky, and Jacinda.

Being a grandma brought Diana great joy. Her four grandchildren — Deiondre, Keyera, Jaxon, and Jade — were the lights of her life.

She is survived by her children: Will and his wife Allison and their children Jaxon and Jade; Jacinda and her children Deiondre and Keyera; and Frank. She is also survived by her sister Betty Jo and her husband Pete; her brother Bill and his wife Lynne; and multiple nieces and nephews. She was preceded in death by her husband, Porky; her parents, Arne and Kay; her sister Bonnie and her husband Ted.

In her final days, Diana was cared for in her children’s homes, surrounded by love rather than machines. The family extends their heartfelt gratitude to the Montana Heart Institute and their wonderful doctors, the nurses who provided comfort and care, the compassionate fourth-floor staff at St. Patrick Hospital, and the exceptional hospice team at Partners in Home Care who provided invaluable home support.

Her service will be held Wednesday, July 9 at 3 PM at Our Savior’s Lutheran Church in Bonner, Montana. For those who wish, flowers are welcome, or a donation may be made to the church in her honor.

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