Diann Mary Heinen Duffy

Diann Mary Heinen Duffy, 74, daughter of the late Wilfred and Ursula (nee Depies) Heinen, passed away in Naples, Fla., the evening of April 20, 2023.

She was the adoring mother of Danielle Briann Duffy of Washington, D.C., and the sister of Darlene and Les Cadmus of Byron, Ill., Dennis and Kathy Heinen of Fredonia, Wis., and Debbie and Bill Kojis of Madison, Wis. Diann was also a beloved sister-in-law to many Duffys that she kept post-marriage. She was the favorite aunt to many nieces and nephews.

Diann was raised on the Heinen family farm near Port Washington, Wis. She graduated from the University of Wisconsin- Oshkosh in 1971 and then moved to Naples, Fla., to begin her teaching career at East Naples Middle School. The charm of Goodland convinced her to stay in Florida and she famously lived in the apartment above Stan’s before moving to the Isles of Capri in 1978.  She taught English and reading at Lely High School for 30 years, earned her master’s degree in reading education and was a passionate mentor. Her colleagues were among her closest friends.

Diann was creative and kind. She loved traveling with her friends and daughter, kayaking and taking walks around Capri, having long conversations on her porch, dancing with the Goodland girls and writing memories and musings in countless journals.

Her spirit will be honored in a celebration of life on her front porch with family and friends.

In her memory, please be generous with your love. Support in her honor can be donated to Avow Hospice, St. Jude or by advocating for more glioblastoma cancer research funding.