Diane is passionate about worship. For over 20 years she has led worship in her local church, as well as at many different conferences and events, both locally and nationally, most recently with Vineyard Music USA. After spending most of her life in the Chicago area, she and her family moved to Marietta in 1997. She has been at the Marietta Vineyard since the summer of 1999 and has been on staff as both administrative assistant and worship pastor since 2000. Her energetic, contemporary style of worship leading reflects an even deeper, authentic walk with God. One of her deepest desires is to see people pursue worship as a lifestyle, rather than 30 minutes on a Sunday morning.
Diane married her high school sweetheart, Kevin Thiel, in 1979. They have two children, Nate, who has just completed Audio Engineering and Production school in Nashville, and Emmie, who is a home-schooled junior. The entire family has been involved with music pretty much all of their lives. Kevin and Diane recorded and toured with a Chicago based band called, “Trilogy”, later known as “The Bond”, during the 80’s, Nate continues to pursue his passion for music as a guitarist, vocalist and songwriter, and Emmie enjoys playing guitar, singing harmonies, and playing the violin.
Beyond her vocal and keyboard talents, Diane is also a published songwriter. Vineyard Music released her song, “If You Say Go” as the title cut of its release in 2002. She also has songs published and recorded with Mosaic, a Chicago based group she tours with, ministering in the area of brokenness.
Diane loves to enjoy the moment. It is not unusual to find her arms loaded down with board games while heading off to a retreat, jumping head first into producing a major children’s musical or going all out on an appreciation banquet. She also has an incredible eye for what looks good and is in high demand whenever anyone moves into a new house or gets the 'decorating bug'.
A few of Diane’s favorite things: "Hanging out with my kids. The Beach!! (Needs no explanation). Sushi. And a relaxing evening with friends and good food."
Hobbies: "Decorating with garage sale and flea market finds." (And she's really good at it!)
Favorite flavor of ice cream: Moosetracks
Favorite candy: Reese’s Peanut Butter Cups… well actually the peanut butter eggs they make at Easter. The peanut butter to chocolate ratio is perfect. And Dark Chocolate!!!
Favorite TV show: "Trading Spaces"
Favorite Bible Verse: Psalm 70:14 “But as for me, I will always have hope! I will praise You more and more.” Diane has held onto this, her life verse for, many years, but never more so than since October 26, 2005 when her husband, Kevin, was tragically killed in a car accident by a wreckless driver who hit him head on. She continues to hold onto this hope "...as an anchor for [her] soul, firm and secure." Hebrews 6:19a