Diana Lynne Katonak

Diana Lynne Katonak, 92, beloved wife of the late Paul Richard Katonak, passed away Saturday, August 22, 2026.

Lynne, as everyone knew her, was a wife, mother, grandmother, great-grandmother, and journalist. Married 72 years, Dad considered her the most beautiful woman in the world. With her vibrant red hair and sleek figure, he would say the only reason she married him was because he promised to teach her how to drive. We are not sure how those lessons went, but she never got the hang of a clutch. You could hear her a mile away, always driving in second gear.

Raised in Pomeroy, Ohio, her father, Malcolm D Hartley, was mayor of the town for six years. After serving in World War II, he became Editor of the local newspaper. Her mom, Minerva Mae Edwards, passed away at the age of 55. Not only did she raise her three children but was also a manager of the S & H catalogue store (interesting for those of us who remember saving these stamps and turning them in for merchandise).

At the age of 16, her parents moved to Lorain, Ohio, where, in band class, she met her forever husband, Paul. After college graduation, they moved to Aiken, SC, where they raised three children.

With a journalism background, she worked at the Aiken Standard newspaper, where she was often seen around town writing feature articles. She won Newspaper Woman of the Year in 1978. Later, after retirement, she and Paul traveled extensively and enjoyed bike riding and dancing. You could always find them at a good yard sale on Saturday. Clipping coupons, going to thrift stores and finding a good deal (even if you didn’t need it) was their passion.

She will not only be missed by her family, but because she is not with us here on earth, there is a hole in our hearts that will never be filled. She gave her family laughter, taught us life lessons, and showed how to truly love. It has been an honor and privilege to have had her in our lives for the past 92 years.

She is survived by her daughter, Wendy Fitzgerald, and her son Brian Katonak (Carrie Katonak, spouse), seven grandchildren and fourteen great-grandchildren. She is preceded in death by her husband, Paul Richard Katonak and daughter, Belinda Lee Tate.

A service celebrating her and Paul's life will be announced at a later date.

SHELLHOUSE FUNERAL HOME, INC., 924 HAYNE AVE., AIKEN, SC 29801