Diane Kelland (nee Lovatt)
Diane was born in Trent Vale, Staffordshire, England, to Marie Halsey Wallett and Harold Albert Lovatt. Very early on, she developed a love of dance and in particular ballet. After having completed her major syllabus in ballet, she became a professional ballerina touring throughout the United Kingdom. It was there that she met her husband, John, a musician. Upon leaving the stage, she opened a successful ballet school teaching hundreds of girls and young women the appreciation of ballet. She arrived in Canada in 1968 with her two young daughters and husband John, who had secured a senior position in the travel industry.
During her first years in Canada, Diane worked in the family’s travel company, but always maintained her interest and love of the arts. Upon retiring from the travel business she threw herself back into dance, picking up where she left off and attending professional level ballet classes. She loved every form of the arts, and enrolled in both painting and acting classes. Our homes are scattered with her beautiful artwork, and we were honoured to have been part of the audience at her numerous performances with Act II, a Ryerson University theatrical troupe. She often talked of her friends at Act II and the fun experiences and warm relationships that she formed.
Diane discovered an interest in psychology, and once again returned to furthering her education, by obtaining a Certificate of Psychology at Ryerson University.
Diane was an avid reader, and became the volunteer librarian at the school attended by her grandson, in fact so much did she give of her time and expertise, that they named their new library after her. It was a proud moment.
Diane had a particularly special relationship with her grandson, Dan, who she played an important part in helping to raise. Their time together continued to teach him valuable life lessons about the value of knowledge, persistence, justice, kindness, and loving life and the world. Throughout her life, much time was spent between the two of them vigorously discussing the wisdom of Captain Jean-Luc Picard.
Later on in her years Diane discovered a wonderful dance community at Attitudes Dance Studio, where once again she performed on the stage and taught adult ballet classes. Her dance friends at Attitudes meant a lot to her and it became her “sanctuary” for many years.
Along with her many friends, Diane leaves behind a dear high school friend, Bea Hamer, who resides in New Zealand. Bea and Diane continued corresponding throughout the years, keeping each other updated on what was going on in their lives.
Diane loved all animals, Star Trek, astrophysics, politics, sports, movies, theatre, gardening, and had a host of other interests. She wrote many journals of her travels throughout the world, and took an interest in so many areas that it was sometimes difficult to keep up with her. She was a strong and fiercely independent woman who insisted on driving a stick shift well into her eighties.
Diane was a kind, loving and caring woman, a gentle soul, who was as beautiful on the inside as she was on the outside. We will miss her terribly.
A special thank you to our wonderful Sophia Wallace for her companionship, kindness, and care of both “Mum” and our family over the last few months.
As per Diane’s wishes, a service will not take place, but we, and she, would respectfully appreciate donations to The North Toronto Cat Rescue, c/o 28 John Stiver Cr, Markham, Ontario L3R 9A8 / www.northtorontocatrescue.com in memory of Diane Kelland.
A celebration of Mum’s life will take place at a later date.
Offer Condolence for the family of Diane Kelland (nee Lovatt)
Jan Tannis
Dear Jane, Miranda and family:
What a beautiful tribute to a beautiful Mother. What a coincident that I also grew up in Trent Vale, Stoke-on-Trent and in the same social circle as your Mom’s Sister.
Jane, I value our many years of friendship and all our shared experiences; the ups and downs we’ve helped eachother through. I know how difficult the last year has been for you all and in particular the last few months and weeks. Your Mum had a wonderful life and loved you all very much, still knowing that doesn’t make it any easier to say goodbye. I am always here for you and for your family.
Jan ( Tannis).
Stephen O'Hara
Miranda , Tim , Dan , Manisha , Elayne , Jane , Gaston ,Other Family & Friends.. We are sorry for your loss and wish you peace & comfort in this difficult time.
Our Hearts go out to you.
Steve , Dorothy, Stephanie & Charles
Victoria Mitchell
What an absolutely beautiful tribute to such an incredibly beautiful lady. A live so well lived. She left such an impression on everyone she met. She made you feel so special, important and so loved every time she saw you. She will forever be remembered as “Nana” to me. What a very special lady. I’m grateful to have known her and blessed to have spent time with her throughout the years. I will hold my memories of Nana so close to my heart, always. Wishing you all peace and comfort as you navigate through the coming days, weeks and months.
Jane & Gaston, my sincere condolences and love to you both.
Miranda (Mum), Tim (Dad) and Dan (lil bro) sending you an enormous amount of love. I am here with you every step of the way. I love you all so very much ❤️
May
Loosing someone is painful process 😭💔 and timing is valuable when its come sending condolences/ sympathy messages across to the bereaved family.
We are expressing our deepest sympathy and condolences to the entire family of (mum) Diane Kellan our prayers and thoughts are with you all.may God comfort you at this time of grief . I miss you so mum 😭😭 i loveyou
Doreen Kapila
My deepest sympathy to all of Diane’s family near and far. Especially, Miranda&Tim, Dan&Manisha, Jane&Gaston
She was my next door neighbour and friend for 26+years.
I have very fond memories of Elegant Diane.
The Chocolate Easter Bunnies on my front door chair – Xmas Cards popped in our mailbox – Taking in the mail in each others absence – Our chats over the garden wall every year about what to plant that season – How each year Diane’s “forget-me-knots” found there way under the fence to my side. When we left English Ivyway, these ‘Forget-Me-Knots’ became the signature in most of our communications especially in ‘Spring Time’ . Till we meet again on the other side Diane. 💖
Julie Bolton
My heart breaks for you all. Your Mum was such a wonderful person. She will be missed by all that knew her.
Helen
So sorry to hear of your mum’s death Miranda. My condolences to you and all the family.
I remember the ballet lessons we had in Stafford, taught by your mum, with great fondness.
She had a full and productive life. You must be very proud of her.
Donna and Barry Cox
Miranda, Jane and all family members …A beautiful tribute to a wonderful life. Sharing your sadness and your loss of your wonderful Mum. All things beautiful last forever kept within sweet memories.
Love Donna and Barry
Gillian Cruise-Johnston
A wonderful tribute to a wonderful woman. With our love to you all. Kia kaha – be strong! Gill and Alan, Aotearoa
Richard, Sue and family
Our thoughts are with you all, so sorry for your loss. Miranda and Jane, your Mum was and will always remain a very special person and whilst you will miss her hugely, there is so much to celebrate about her rich life. Love to you all, and take care of each other.
Lovely tribute, too!
Richard, Sue and family
Rosa and Steve Parker.
Our thoughts are with you in this difficult time. The best memories live forever. Sorry for your loss Miranda.
Much love
Rosa and Steve.
Hammam Farah
My deepest condolences, Miranda and Dan and the family. Dan would always speak of his grandmother, and I know she had a profound influence on his thinking and upbringing. My thoughts are with you.
Barbara and Fred Carr
Our thoughts and prayers are with you Miranda and Tim. So sorry for your loss, I enjoyed reading about your mother’s amazing life. It’s clear what a wonderful woman she was and how much you all loved her.
Janet
Heartfelt condolences Miranda,Tim and family. Your Mum was a lovely gracious lady and will be truly
missed. May you find strength in the wonderful memories of your times together.
My thoughts and prayers are with you all.
Maureen and Bill
Our thoughts are with you Jane, Gaston, Miranda, Tim and family. What a beautiful tribute to your Mum. She certainly lived a very full and interesting life and will be missed by all.
Maria and Andy
Much love, hugs & strength to you all from Maria & Andy
Usman
My sincerest condolences Miranda, Dan, Tim and family. Since I first met Dan he always spoke about the many ways in which his grandmother had impacted his life and who he is today. I’m great-full for the way in which she shaped my friend. My thoughts are with you all
Claire Heathcote
Miranda, Tim & family
Such a beautiful tribute to a much loved lady. She sounds like she lived a lovely and very full life enjoying so many great aspects of it. Her journals will be precious to you and a lovely journey through her life. Send you all much love ❤️
Maureen Delaney
Beautiful obituary and wonderful tributes from everyone – all well deserved.
Diane, we had some great times together in Act II. Remembering you fondly.
Maureen Delaney
Ann Levy & Kent MacLachlan
The loss of a mom is unimaginable pain. As you lean on the love and support of friends & family while navigating through this difficult journey, we hope some comfort is found while remembering a remarkable and very full life. Ann & Kent.
EDWARD Derek VINCENT
I cherish a photo of Diane and I in costume in an ACT2 production. Such a talented and gracious, and warm person. Rest peacefully dear lady.
Ed .