Diane Lenore Ulrich Partington, "Nonni", beloved wife, mother, grandmother, sister and dear friend to many, passed away peacefully in her sleep on Januaiy 27, 2025 with her devoted husband of 50 years, Fred Partington, at her side.

Diane built and led a marvelous life despite many difficult periods including the loss of her father at age 17 as well as experiencing the passing of three of five sons. Despite some health issues in her later years that impeded her mobility she remained upbeat and full of life until the veiy end. She cared deeply about her family, helping others, and had tremendous compassion for fellow human beings. Her home and her heart were always open to anyone who needed either.

Diane had a passion for genealogy and was especially proud of her Italian heritage. She spent countless hours researching information for people all over the world. Her work contributed to the preservation of important genealogical records and she was recognized in 2015 by the Washington State Genealogical Society for her outstanding service and dedication in helping to maintain records for the development of research databases.

Diane's life journey began in San Jose California on September 14, 1939. Born to Jack and Alma Ferro Ulrich the oldest of three children.

Diane lived on many military bases across the countiy over the years where she developed a wide assortment of friends who she cherished throughout her life. She and Fred moved to Mount Vernon, Washington, when Fred retired from the US Air Force in 1978. Diane and Fred both worked at Skagit Valley Hospital where Diane worked as an Unit Assistant until they both fully retired. After Fred's retirement and when they were finished raising their combined family of 5 boys they enjoyed travelling and spending time with family and friends. Even though Diane was outnumbered by men for many years there was never a question about who ruled the roost!

In her younger days, Diane was often referred to as "wonder woman," as she had boundless energy and could tackle most tasks without complaint. She never wanted to be a burden to anyone. She was quite unassuming and didn't take herself too seriously. She was far more curious about what was going on in others' minds than to share too much of what was on hers. She never ceased to be kind and available to anyone who needed a friend.

If you knew Diane, you also knew that she enjoyed playing card games, good food, and mostly spending time with others. She was quick witted and could make a joke in almost any situation.

Diane was a strikingly beautiful woman both inside and out but what was most notable was her charisma, infectious chuckle, bright smile, and her overarching kindness. There was no one like her. It was tough to remain in a bad mood when she was in your presence.

Diane will be sorely missed by her husband Fred, and her son and his wife Chris Jones and his wife Becky Jones , her step son Doug Partington and his wife Erika Partington and their children Nicole, Katherine, Natalie and Jacob, her brother John Ulrich and his wife Anne­ Marie as well as his children Renee Ulrich Gerald (Evan) and family, Matt Ulrich (Ktys), as well as numerous extended family members.

Diane was preceded in death by her father and mother Jack Ulrich and Alma Ulrich Freccero her stepfather Frank Freccero her two sons Patrick and David Jones and her stepson David Partington and her brother Michael Ulrich. She can now join them in eternal peace.

An urnside service will be held Tuesday, June 3, 2025, 10:00 am at Hawthorne Memorial Park