Diane Marie Govi

Diane Govi, 65, of West Des Moines, Iowa passed away on Saturday, November 22, 2025, at Iowa Methodist Medical Center as a result of complications from her cancer treatment. Visitation will be held on Thursday, December 4, from 5:00 to 7:00 p.m. at Hamilton’s on Westown Parkway, 3601 Westown Parkway in West Des Moines. The funeral service will take place on Friday, December 5, at 10:30 a.m., also at Hamilton’s. Private interment will be held at Glendale Cemetery in Des Moines.

Diane was born to Gary and Jacqueline (Parrish) Govi on January 21, 1960, and grew up in West Des Moines. She completed her high school education at Valley High School and later enrolled at Des Moines Area Community College, where she graduated with honors with a degree in Human Services. She was a member of the Psi Beta National Honor Society. Subsequently, she attended Drake University, where she obtained a B.S. in Psychology, graduating Magna Cum Laude.

In 1979, Diane began her professional administrative career in Des Moines as a Customer Communication Technician with Northwestern Bell (Qwest). From 2004 to 2007, she was a Dispatch Representative at Mediacom. In 2007, Diane began an 18-year tenure with the State of Iowa Department of Transportation in Ankeny. Throughout her time with the State, her roles included Clerk Specialist in the Office of Vehicle and Motor Carrier Services, Clerk Specialist in Driver Services, and Information Center Specialist/Customer Service Bureau in the Motor Vehicle Division. At the time of her passing, she held the position of Sanctions Clerk Specialist in the Systems and Administration Bureau.

Diane was an avid music fan who attended numerous concerts across the country. In the late 70s and 80s, she was known locally for her dance moves at City Disco and other popular venues with her friends. In later years, she loved embarking on road trips and travel adventures with her partner, Diane, especially the time spent shelling and relaxing on the beaches of Sanibel Island, Florida. Diane also traveled abroad throughout her life, including trips to Italy, where she connected with family and embraced her Italian roots.

Diane loved coffee and was never spotted without a cup or travel mug in her hand. Her love for photography was evident as she also frequently carried her camera. She took pleasure in gardening and flowers, taking pride in maintaining a meticulous lawn. As a devoted Kansas City Chiefs supporter, she relished watching their games on TV and loved attending their yearly training camp in Missouri.

Diane lived by the motto "Believe", and she believed in loving and caring for all animals. She will be fondly remembered for her love and compassion, generosity, sense of humor, adventurous spirit, stubbornness, curiosity, and kindness towards everyone. Throughout her professional life, she demonstrated a strong work ethic and a commitment to outstanding customer service.

Survivors include her life partner of 20 years, Diane Knight of Des Moines; her sister, Debbie Richards of West Des Moines; her niece, Ellie Richards of West Des Moines; her beloved dog, Bear; and numerous friends and extended family.

Diane was preceded in death by her parents; and her twin sisters, Karen and Nancy Govi.

The family wishes to extend their sincere appreciation to the staff and doctors at UnityPoint Health and Mission Cancer + Blood for the exceptional care and support provided to Diane and her family.

In Diane’s honor, donations may be made to John Stoddard Cancer Center Oncology Navigation Program, 1221 Pleasant Street, Suite 450, Des Moines, IA 50309, or Animal Rescue League Iowa.

Condolences may be expressed at www.HamiltonsFuneralHome.com.

Print