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DIANE LORINA CRANSTON
Born: Sep 20, 1954
Date of Passing: Aug 06, 2026
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DIANE LORINA CRANSTON
Our beloved wife, mother and gramma, Diane Cranston, passed away peacefully on August 6, 2026; she was 71.
Diane was born on September 20, 1954, in Winnipeg, Manitoba. Diane was one of seven children born to George and Colleen Brabant. Diane graduated from Windsor Park Collegiate in 1972 and went on to graduate from the University of Manitoba with a Bachelor of Arts in 1975.
Diane (affectionately known as “Di” to her friends and family) married Ken Cranston in 1976 and they were true partners in life for over 50 years.
She is survived by Ken, her loving and devoted husband; her daughters, Meghan (Jamie Munn) and Leah Puchniak (Michael); her grandchildren, Henry, Everett, Carys, Jack, and Samuel; her sisters, Susan Mamchuk (Ron), Kathy McKay (Marc), July Moir (Bob), Greg Brabant (Chris); and a large community of family and friends who will miss her dearly.
Diane was predeceased by her parents, George and Colleen Brabant; brothers, Gary and Glen Brabant; and her grandson Oliver Puchniak.
Over their 50 years of marriage, Di and Ken created a home for their family in Winnipeg, Brandon, Burlington, Edmonton and Toronto. Di built a welcoming and loving home for her family in every city. With each move, Di poured all of herself into her family and was a constant source of stability and love. Diane was the heart of our home and family.
Moving often while raising a young family had its challenges, but Diane embraced the opportunity to create and sustain friendships. She had a unique gift to connect and build authentic relationships and leaves behind a legacy of kindness that will be deeply missed by family and a devoted circle of lifelong friends.
Diane’s warmth and compassion extended beyond her family and into the community. She dedicated herself to working in various roles with children and youth in need.
Throughout their retirement, Di and Ken spent many wonderful years with family and friends at their cottage on Falcon Lake. Diane was most happy enjoying a cold drink on the dock while watching her grandchildren swim in the lake and ending the day with a good hand of cards. Diane loved to travel. With Ken by her side, often accompanied by friends, she explored much of the world. She was always excited to plan their next adventure.
Diane’s selfless devotion to her family was no more evident than in her role as Gramma. She lovingly participated in her grandchildren’s lives and took such pride in watching them grow.
Diane lived a rich and beautiful life despite the long-term presence of cancer. Originally diagnosed with brain cancer 25 years ago, and then breast cancer 3 years ago, Diane fought with unmatched grace, resilience and an unwavering spirit. She never let illness define her, choosing instead to live fully and always focus on the adventures ahead.
While we are heartbroken by Diane’s sudden passing, we take comfort in knowing she lived fully and lovingly until the very end.
A service and celebration of life will be held on September 25, 2026, at Chapel Lawn Funeral Home, 4000 Portage Avenue at 2:00 p.m. CST, with a reception to follow. All are welcome to attend.
In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to CancerCare Manitoba Foundation, www.cancercarefdn.mb.ca
As published in Winnipeg Free Press on Aug 22, 2026
