Dianne J. Jacob

Dianne J. Jacob, 88, of Iron River, MI, passed away peacefully on Tuesday, April 7, 2026, at Aspirus Iron River Hospital.

She was born on May 3, 1937, in Green Bay, WI, the daughter of the late Andrew and Gladys (Kleinsteiber) Treul. She attended and graduated from Stambaugh High School with the Class of 1955. Following graduation, she attended beautician school in Marquette, MI.

Dianne married Ronald D. Waite on May 31, 1958, in Iron River. Together they bought Mertins Café and operated it until 1972 when they opened Kentucky Fried Chicken in Iron River. They celebrated their 15th wedding anniversary before Ron’s passing on August 3, 1973. She continued to operate the KFC for 25 years before passing it on to her daughter and son-in-law, Rene and Ron Carlson.

Dianne married Buddy L. Jacob on April 16, 1978, in Crystal Falls, MI and made their home in Iron River. They celebrated their 45th wedding anniversary in 2023. Buddy preceded her in death on June 26, 2023.

Dianne was a member of the Friends of the West Iron District Library and started the lending library at the Windsor Center and later it was named after her. She completed her aviation training and acquired her pilot license. She also parachuted from an airplane at the Stambaugh Airport. She enjoyed ceramics, basket weaving, beading, canning, cooking, and baking. Dianne also enjoyed downhill skiing and was on the ski patrol at Ski Brule. She enjoyed many years of traveling with Buddy.

She was a woman who found her greatest joy in life’s simple meaningful moments—sharing coffee at the table, gathering for meals, and spending time with her people she loved the most. Dianne had a generous and creative spirit, lovingly making hundreds of baskets over the years, which she delighted in giving away to others. Dianne was a deeply loving wife, mother, grandmother, and friend. She had a special way of making those around her feel truly seen, appreciated, and cherished. Her love was warm and constant. Dianne’s life was a beautiful reflection of love, generosity, and quiet strength. She will be deeply missed and forever remembered in the hearts of all who knew her.

She is survived by her daughter, Rene (Ron) Carlson of Iron River; sons, Otto (Debra) Jacob of Quinnesec, MI and John (Cate) Jacob of Tallahassee, FL; daughters, Leeann Schaffer of Owosso, MI, Malissa (Bill) Eagloski of Iron River, MI; brother, Larry Treul of Munising, MI; grandchildren, Richelle (Joe) Jochem, Kerry Friedman, Betsy (Casey) Hoida, Buddy Jacob, Megan Eagloski, Morgan (Brett) Jenshak, Monica (Keegan) Blish, Stacy Schaffer, and Daniel (Jessica) Perez; great-grandchildren, Bradley and Isabella Jochem, Reese and Ryan Rivard, and Molly and Claire Hoida; great-great-granddaughter, Ava Marie Polich; and nieces, nephews, and extended family.

She was also preceded in death by brother, Dennis Treul.

A Celebration of Life will be held on Saturday, May 2, 2026, at 1:00 p.m. at the Iron River Senior Center with Pastor Kraig Tass to officiate.