Addonia “Dian” Mahar passed away on July 25, 2023, in South Bend, IN.
Born on July 17, 1944, in Marshalltown, IA, she was the cherished daughter of John and Addonia Riley, who predeceased her.
Dian was a woman of grace and gentleness, known for her kindness and creativity. She was an avid crafter, renowned for making every greeting card she gave out, each one a unique testament to her artistic spirit. Her love for the natural world was evident in her passion for flowers, gardening, and bird watching, hobbies that brought her immeasurable joy.
Dian was deeply committed to her faith, dedicating many years of her life to the Berrien Center Bible Church as a long-standing member. Her devotion to Christ and her church was a cornerstone of her existence, shaping the compassionate, warm woman that her community knew and loved.
She met her late husband, Jack Mahar, on a dance floor, and their love story was filled with rhythm and joy. Dancing was not just a shared hobby for Dian and Jack, but a symbol of their enduring love. They continued to dance throughout their lives together, even competing in clogging competitions, a testament to their shared passion and joyous spirit.
Dian was a beloved mother to her sons: Dana (Katherine) Rose of Russell Springs, KY, George Rose of Russell Springs, Brad (Karen) Rose of Watervliet and Erik Rose of Berrien Center. She also welcomed Jack Jr. (Dawn) Mahar of Niles, Andrew (Chrissy) Mahar of Niles, and Michael (Jennifer) Mahar of Niles into her family as cherished step-sons along with Stephen Mahar, who precedes her in death. Her legacy also extends to her numerous adored grandchildren and great-grandchildren, who will carry her memory in their hearts.
She was the dear sister of: Joyce, Rhonda and Jo, and she was predeceased by Jack Riley. Dian’s family was her pride and joy, and she was dedicated to nurturing and supporting them with unwavering love and warmth. She was also supported through life by her best friend and confidant, Sherrie Eubanks.
In remembering Dian, we celebrate a life lived with grace, filled with love, and dedication to family, faith, and the joy of creation. Her memory will live on in the hearts of those she loved, in the beauty of the flowers she nurtured, in the greeting cards she crafted, and in the rhythm of the dances she shared with her beloved Jack.
Funeral services were held Monday, July 31, at Berrien Center Bible Church, 8830 M-140, Berrien Center, with Pastor Bill Zebell officiating. Dian will be interred at Union Cemetery in Berrien Center next to her husband, Jack.
Memorial donations may be made in Dian’s memory to St. Jude Children’s Hospital, Berrien Center Bible Church, or A Rosie Place.
Arrangements have been entrusted to Brown Funeral Home & Cremation Services of Niles. Condolences, photos, and memories may be left for the family at www.BrownFuneralHomeNiles.com.
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