Marguerite Anne Diano

Born October 22, 1937, in Edmonton, Alberta, to Kathleen and Gordon Johnston, Anne grew up in Vancouver. Her father was a prestigious and highly respected general surgeon. While her mother was a well-educated woman supporting her husband’s success.

Anne went to school at Maple Grove Elementary, then to Point Grey High School and transitioned midway through high school to boarding school at Queen Margaret’s on Vancouver Island. Her mother felt Anne was rebellious and needed taming! We loved that part of her. Truth was, she was known for her incredible intelligence and bright mind within her family and amongst peers.

Now a young woman, she attended the University of British Columbia where she collected a Bachelor of Arts followed by a Master of Arts with an emphasis in French. As a lover of languages and keen reader, Anne was fluent in both French and Italian. It was her French that took her abroad to Europe on scholarship to the University of Strasbourg in France. On her trip she brought and likely collected many books. After graduation she continued to read and study, packing her books along with her. She travelled through Europe down into Italy to teach English. It was in Italy that her life would change forever.

In Genoa, Italy, now at the age of 24, she met Enrico Alfonso Diano – a true blooded Italian from Salerno, Italy who was away on a work trip. The classic love story, they fell together and stayed together eventually marrying and ending up back in Vancouver. His family fell in love with her too, and he fell in love with his Canadian life. At their wedding, she wore a borrowed dress (thanks Sheila)! To top it off, he wore a borrowed suit (from Vittorio back in Italy)!

After having her children, Anne went back to complete a 3rd degree: a Masters in Librarianship. By then Anne had transformed into a mother, wife and professional working woman! She went on to have a successful career at the Vancouver Public Library. It was her steadiness and keen passion for knowledge, reading, and synthesizing insights for patrons, that led her to become a senior Librarian in the Science and Technology Division. She was tapped to be the union representative for staff, and it was her wise counsel that navigated many grievances between staff and management. Her career ran a remarkable 31 years from 1971- 2002.

It was her family, though, that was her priority. She was a steadfast companion to Enrico on many trips to Italy and Europe, on fishing trips in BC, and visits to see relatives. She was an avid swimmer, and it was on those trips to Italy that she enjoyed long swims in the warm blue Mediterranean. We often watched her swim into the distance and delight upon her return from the great sea!

She kept her faith up too, often riding her bike to church on her own to cultivate her own personal relationship with God. Today as we reflect on her life, we see how this spiritual dedication helped shape her children and influenced her long-standing relationships with friends. Anne was steady and loyal yet clear when one had crossed the line (especially her kids!) Her wonderful sense of humour and beautiful laugh kept us all energized and it was clear that we were loved.

Anne cherished her relatives, Jane, Bill, and Gary. She especially held her friendships dear. People like Angela Haaf, Sheila Ross, Sandra May, Elizabeth Fletcher, Nancy Clegg, Marion Price, Pat Haffenden, Terry Dobroslavic, and many more. Anne made a point of keeping in touch, often through writing letters and cards, and often spoke fondly of her relatives and friends and their goings on.

In the latter years, Anne developed Alzheimer's. She remained a bright light, showing us to be an incredible champion through it all. With an occasional soft laugh, a subtle nod, and a few words here and there, she rose above her situation. Here she cultivated a special relationship with Enrico, through his devoted love and care. She gifted us with her presence and heart to the end.

Predeceased by her parents, Kathleen and Gordon Johnston, Auntie Bim, Ethel, Cathy, Uncles Raymond, Morley, and Burt, cousins Toy and Ron, Lloyd and Jesse, and Beverly. She is survived by her husband, Enrico Diano, children Linda and Carlo Diano, her cousins Bill Reed, Gary Reed, and Jane Moore, and countless friends near and far.

Anne often commented she outlived her parents. For that we are forever grateful. Our hearts with always swell with love for you, Anne.

Church Service & Reception

For more information on the church service and reception details, please email: annegathering604@gmail.com

Service:

Tues July 08, 2025, St John's Vancouver Anglican Church, 5350 Baillie St., Vancouver

Reception:

Van Dusen Gardens (37th and Oak)