Diane Kandle Maika, formerly Diane Clarke, age 77, of Earlysville, passed away peacefully on December 23, 2020. She was preceded in death by her parents, Albert C. Kandle and Helen S. Kandle.

She is survived by her husband, Christopher S. Maika; her son, Chris W. Clarke and his wife, Melissa; two grandchildren, Aaron and Heather; niece, Stephanie Hall; and cousin, the Honorable James S. Gilmore III, former Governor of the Commonwealth of Virginia and his wife, Roxane G. Gilmore.

Diane was born on June 22, 1943, and grew up in Richmond and Charlottesville, graduating from Albemarle High School in 1961. She was a lifelong professional hair stylist owning Woodbrook Beauty Salon from 1971 to1983. In 1983, Diane moved to Titusville, Florida, where she continued her work, at Brenda's Hairstyling, until retirement. In 2010 Diane returned to Earlysville to care for her mother.

Diane loved horses and spent many years riding and occasionally showing. Her vivaciousness was present throughout her being, with her closest of friends being those either riding horses or working side by side. Angie Hudson, Aimee Flint and Brenda Garrett were very dear to Diane.

A private memorial service will be held at a later date. Memorial contributions may be made to Ivy Creek United Methodist Church, 674 Woodlands Road, Charlottesville, VA 22901, or Meals on Wheels, 704 Rose Hill Drive, Charlottesville, VA 22903.

Submitted by Mary Ann Robertson and Sam Clarke.