Diane Melsha

Diane Melsha

Cedar Rapids

Diane Louise Melsha, née Hauskins, passed away peacefully on November 30, 2025, surrounded by caregivers and family. She was born on October 21, 1933, in Cedar Rapids, Iowa, to Arthur and Grace Hauskins.

Diane grew up in Cedar Rapids, graduated from Roosevelt High School, and attended the University of Colorado. She worked for her father at Sanitary Farm Dairies before joining the Melsha family business, Banjo Equipment Company, while also running her own business, Little Bohemia.

Talented and creative, Diane shared her love of music by playing accordion throughout Iowa, including on the radio and in recorded performances. She enjoyed ice skating, tennis, and golf, and was known for her exceptional style and eye for design. She took great pride in the home she created, which was featured in several newspapers and magazines. To her family, she was the Martha Stewart of the group, always decorating with elegance and grace.

On July 19, 1958, she married Leon “Tunnie” Melsha. Together they raised three sons: Jeffrey, David, and Ronald “Pub.” Diane and Tunnie treasured their time at their cottage in Bellevue, where she loved sitting on the porch with a glass of Chardonnay and her golden retriever, Macey.

Diane cherished her role as a mother and grandmother above all.

She was preceded in death by her parents; her husband, Tunnie; her son, David; and her beloved dog, Macey. She is survived by her sons Jeffrey D. Melsha and Ronald “Pub” Melsha; two grandchildren, Joe Melsha and Sarah Melsha; and extended family and friends.

The family extends heartfelt thanks to the caregivers at Terrace Glen Village and to Zac Gray for his devoted care and love for Diane. In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to the Alzheimer’s Association in Diane’s honor. In keeping with Diane’s wishes, a private inurnment and family celebration of life will be held at a later date.