Diane Amalea Laxton born May 18, 1957 in West Seattle, Washington, passed away peacefully March 23, 2012 after a brief battle with pancreatic cancer.

Diane was born and raised in West Seattle, attending Gatewood Elementary, Madison Middle School and graduating from West Seattle High, class of 75. After graduation, Diane held numerous jobs, most notably at Pemco Insurance, where she spent thirty-two years. Recently, Diane was employed at Butter London. Diane’s most challenging, yet rewarding role, was caring for others. Over the years, Diane cared for her grandfather, spent twelve years caring for her two nephews and would be at a friend’s side in a moment’s notice. Compassionate, gracious, loving, warm hearted and generous are just a few adjectives that exemplified who Diane was.

Diane was a tomboy at heart, growing up with two brothers and in a neighborhood full of boys. She loved all things outdoors, whether it was tending to her roses, designing and building her cherished koi pond, to camping, watching baseball, fishing and boating. One of Diane’s favorite pastimes was shopping, which she was quite good at. Diane, with her mom usually at her side, would often shop for hours and never passed up a sale. Diane also found great pleasure in traveling and beachcombing. She truly enjoyed the serenity of the ocean waves along with collecting the everyday treasures found amongst the many beaches she visited.
Diane met the love of her life, Jon Mahon, in 1996. Their mutual passion for cruising brought them together and over the years they traveled many miles with one another. Jon’s three children were so loved by Diane and she treasured spending time with each of them. When grandkids came along, Diane could not have been more ecstatic.

Diane was a firm believer in community and a dedicated member of the Fraternal Order of Eagles. Diane twice served as an officer of the Auxiliary and enjoyed the Eagles for not only the social aspect but for the charitable giving. Diane epitomized the fraternity’s motto, “People Helping People”.

Diane is survived by her mother Janice Laxton, brothers Richard and Thomas Laxton, fiancé Jon Mahon and numerous extended family members and friends.

A celebration of life will be held at the West Seattle Eagles Sunday, April 1, 2012 at 3pm.

In lieu of flowers, contributions can be made to the Swedish Cancer Institute or to the Fraternal Order of Eagles Art Ehrmann Cancer Fund.