SALEM - Mrs. Diane Kiernan Makarushka, RN, of Salem, MA, 68, beloved wife of Ihor B. Makarushka, MD, passed away unexpectedly and peacefully on March 31, 2023, at her home.

Born in Salem, she was the third of ten children and the daughter of the late Russell William and Elizabeth Rosemary (Dwyer) Kiernan. She was raised and educated in Beverly, and attended Saint Chretien High School then was a graduate of Beverly High School. She received her RN from Salem Hospital School of Nursing.

She loved nursing which she practiced in many settings including pediatrics, her biggest love, fertility, maternal and child health, assisted living and as a visiting nurse. She was an extremely kind, caring and compassionate nurse who met every challenge that arose with unparalleled devotion. She found purpose and meaning in life through supporting and caring for those around her. She was a voracious reader of all the latest nursing and medical information of which she made use in caring for many members of her family and her patients. Her experience as a nurse was always evident in her kind and caring manner. She was interested in nutrition and health living which she applied to her own life and with her family and others around her, supporting their healthy lifestyle.

She was fiercely compassionate about family and all that went into it. Her devotion to her husband, sisters, brothers, parents, nieces and nephews and grandchildren was a bond so strong as to be unbreakable. She would take on any situation or person in support of her family. She will be dearly missed by her family as the "piece that kept them whole".

Diane and her husband, Ihor, had a profound love for each other which manifested in everything they did, especially in their deep friendship. They shared a sense of humor that cemented their marriage and life together. They enjoyed everything together as a couple especially their love of travelling. They adventured through Europe and the Caribbean islands where they discovered different cultures and local foods. They spent their summers on Cape Cod exploring everything from antiques to the uniqueness of Provincetown as they both loved the beach and being close to the water. They also shared their great passion for health care. They went to many medical conferences throughout the US, learning and improving their medical skills while exploring the regions. Diane loved to cook and bake, and the delights that she put in front of Ihor were greatly appreciated. Her passing has created a deep void and emptiness where there was so much life and sharing. Ihor will miss her more than anything in the world.

For the three oldest sisters having a sister like Diane, was to have a ready-made best friend, confidante, mentor and partner-in-crime. From the time they were kids, Diane was always ready for a bike ride to the corner store or a train ride to Rockport. They were lucky enough to grow up by the ocean, with tide pools to explore, and sandy tuna fish sandwiches for picnics on the beach.

Diane had many nieces and nephews who remember her at all their birthdays, holidays and events, where she was always present in the moment to lend advice and make sure they were happy and most importantly healthy. Her infectious laugh would always bring a smile to each of their faces and her love for each one of them was unmistakable.

In addition to her loving husband Ihor, who was her partner for 35 years and married for 23 of those years, Diane is survived by his children Christina Makarushka and her husband David Napp of Durham, NC, Marta Makarushka and Rob Fightmaster of Springfield, OR, and Damian Makarushka and his wife Cheryl Crupi of Durham, NC; her sisters, Elizabeth A. Kelley and her husband Neil of Hampton, NH, Priscilla McInnis and her husband Paul of North Hampton, NH, Nancy Kiernan, and Susan Santin and her husband Ernest (Sandy) of Wenham; her brothers, Peter R. Kiernan and his wife Pamela of Bonita Springs, FL, Stephen L. Kiernan of Florida and Richard W. Kiernan of Florida; her uncle, Donald V. Kiernan of Wenham and many loving nieces, nephews, grandchildren, cousins, extended family and many dear friends. She was also the sister of the late Mary Ellen Kiernan and Phillip R. Kiernan.

ARRANGEMENTS: At the request of the family, all services are private. Assisting the family with arrangements is O'Donnell Cremations - Funerals - Celebrations, 84 Washington Sq., (at Salem Common) SALEM. Expressions of sympathy may be made in Diane's memory through donations in her name to HAWC in Salem or American Cancer Society. To share a memory or offer a condolence, please visit www.odonnellfuneralservice.com.