Diane KIix

Diane Klix, beloved wife, mother, grandmother, and friend passed away October 3, 2020 with a view of her garden and surrounded by family after her second battle with cancer. With her strong spirit she managed to bless us with her smile and laughter till the end.

Diane loved her husband and partner in life, her children, and her grandchildren Alisya Torres Klix and Paige Klix.

Diane was born in Royal Oak, Michigan to Helen and Henry Rotkiewicz. She was raised with her brother David. This is where she discovered her talent for art and most importantly would meet her soul mate and husband Stephen C Klix. The two built a strong relationship that inspired many.

After graduating from Wayne State University with a degree in Art Education Diane started her career teaching in Bloomfield Hills. She eventually moved to ‘The Farm’ in Benzie county with her husband to begin their family. Children Kedar, Stephen (Kelby), and Tessia were born here. The home filled up quickly with many adopted animals from horses to goats to cats. Eventually they packed up and moved to her forever home in Traverse City. Diane began a daycare out of that home. She taught kids to read, draw, paint, garden, love insects and animals, she instilled values and lessons, and most of all respect. She grew a garden that you can pick out on google maps where food and herbs fed many people (way before farm to table was even popular). The kids’ friends often joked they were going to eat at Diane’s Kitchen. She turned the house into a school, art/design studio, gym, restaurant, museum, boutique, hair salon, camp, and a place where imaginations had no limits with the help of her loving and incredibly handy husband.

Notably, she was also a real life google. She had so many passions and interests it was unreal. If you knew Diane (or met her once) you’ve called her for advice. She will always be remembered for her deep connection to nature and her surroundings. One look at something and she would know how to make it better.

In honor of Diane please send donations to the Audubon Society or the botanical gardens at Historic Barns Park.

Please visit www.lifestorytc.com to share your thoughts and memories.