Freida Diane Dachenbach

Frieda “Diane” Dachenbach, of Marion, Ohio, passed away peacefully on August 26, 2026. Born on November 2, 1946, Diane was the daughter of the late Violet and Chalmers Pickens.

A lifelong resident of Marion, Diane built a beautiful life surrounded by the people and things she loved most. She was preceded in death by her dear sister and best friend, Mary Lore-Dutton, as well as her brother, Jack.

Diane is survived by her children, Michelle (Michael) Franklin and Chris (Jacqueline) Dains; her brothers, Robert (Paula) Pickens, Mark (Teresa) Pickens, Tim (Krista) Pickens, and Scott (Shelly) Pickens; and her beloved grandchildren, Zach (Lakan) Franklin, Dalton (Ashlee) Dains, and Carly (Tyler) Clark. She was also the proud great-grandmother of Max and Eliza Dains; Cyrus and Lane Franklin; and Lainey Clark. She is also survived by several special nieces and nephews whom she loved very much, along with two very dear friends, Mary Weston and Nancy Roberts.

Diane spent many years working as an optician at Sears Optical, a career she truly loved and took great pride in. She enjoyed working with her patients and helping others, and the relationships she built throughout her career meant a great deal to her.

Family was at the center of Diane’s life. She loved her family deeply, and her grandchildren and great-grandchildren brought her an especially great amount of joy. She cherished watching her family grow and creating memories with the people she loved.

Independent, tough, and full of humor, Diane was never afraid to be herself. She had a great sense of humor and a strength that carried her through life. Diane was known for her kind and selfless heart. She cared deeply about the people around her and was always willing to put the needs of others before her own. She also enjoyed getting lost in a good book during quieter moments.

Diane will be remembered for her humor, independence, and generous spirit. Her absence will be deeply felt, but the memories she created and the lives she touched will remain with all who knew her.

A private celebration of life will be held at a later date.