Kathy Diemer, 70, of Defiance, Ohio, was lovingly welcomed into Heaven on July 29, 2025, surrounded by her family and the music that carried her through life. In a moment that can only be described as heaven-orchestrated, she passed just as a recording of her own voice began to play, her singing I’ll Fly Away, the very song she had once said she wanted playing when she left this earth.
Born August 11, 1954, Kathy grew up in a close-knit family full of love, faith, and a healthy dose of humor. On May 26, 1973, she married her high school sweetheart, Tom Diemer. Together they built a life anchored in faith, music, and unconditional love, raising four daughters and creating a home where everyone was welcome and music echoed often. She was preceded in death by her husband, parents, Rev. James Randall and Mary Eldridge, her infant brother Jerry, and nephews Jared and Patrick Deming.
Kathy is survived by her beautiful and loving daughters, Sonya (Randy) Vukadinovich (Benton, Illinois), Kim (Charlie) Askins (Defiance), Tommi Diemer (Defiance), and Krissi Rosales (Archbold). She had 11 beloved grandchildren: Tyler, Victoria, and Taryn Vukadinovich; Gavin, Graham, Grayson, and Grayleigh Askins; Mya and TJ Diemer; and Triston and Gracie Rosales, and one great-grandson Exavier Bauer. She was incredibly proud of each of them – and was never shy about saying so.
She is also survived by her siblings: Randy (Vaughnanda) Eldridge of Defiance, Bridgette (Norm) Stallard of Morristown, TN, Rhonda (Dan) Weber of Defiance, Patty (Dan) Jones of Antwerp, and Rick (Janie) Eldridge of Buckeye, AZ.
To know Kathy was to be hugged tightly, prayed for fiercely, and probably fed one of her famous southern comfort meals that only a mom could make. Her love for music and her deep faith were ever-present. She found joy in the smallest moments and strength even in the stormiest seasons. She was as real as they come – unafraid to tell it like it is, but always with heart. She was a testimony in progress, meant to spread God’s word and promise.
Kathy’s final days were filled with hymns, laughter, shared memories, and moments of grace despite the numerous health battles she fought along the way. True to her inner spirit, she danced her way right into eternity. Her earthy battles are over and she has received her heavenly reward.
Visitation will be at Schaffer Funeral Home in Defiance on Saturday August 2nd, 2025 from 2-8pm. A celebration of Kathy’s life will be held at 3:00 pm at Defiance Christian Church on Sunday August 3rd 2025. An additional hour of visitation will be at DCC before the service. Burial will be Monday August 4th, 2025 at 11am at Ayersville Cemetery – friends and family are welcome.
For those wishing to honor her memory, contributions to the family are welcomed as we plan a heartfelt donation to CHP Hospice of Defiance, whose incredible care made her final chapter one of peace, love, and grace.
