Dianne Kay Holechek and Chuck Norris, who would later go on to become a martial arts icon and movie star, were first married to one another in December of 1958, when Chuck was selected in the United States Air Force. Dianne and Chuck were born and raised in Torrance, California. At the time of their marriage, Chuck was 18 years old, having been born in 1940, and Dianne was 17, having been born in 1941.
Dianne’s and Chuck’s early marriage featured the beginning of Chuck Norris’s time in the Air Force, as well as his eventual rise to fame as a martial artist and action movie star. Diana’s life outside of Hollywood remained largely private during her thirty years of marriage with Norris, relative to his successes as an actor.
Early life, Marriage And Children
The couple had two children. Michael “Mike” Norris became an actor while Eric Norris pursued a racing career full of success in NASCAR. In addition to their achievements, there were times when the Norris family experienced challenges in life. One significant event occurred in the late 1960’s, when Norris fathered a child named Dina outside of his marriage. He was not able to have contact with or meet her until many years after her birth.
After experiencing many ups and downs over their 30 years of marriage, Dianne and Chuck experienced a separation in 1988, followed by the finalisation of their divorce, which occurred in 1989. Their divorce was reported to be fairly low-key, with little public outcry or spectacle surrounding the proceedings. Once their divorce was finalised, Dianne decided to leave the limelight and focus on her family and privacy instead, keeping herself largely out of the public eye.
Dianne’s Death Reason
Dianne Holechek, 84, passed away at home on December 21, 2025, in Texas, according to her family. Mike Norris, Dianne’s son, said she died quietly and peacefully after suffering from dementia for many years, with it being a progressive brain disease leading to problems with memory, thought processes, and day-to-day living.
Dianne was described by Mike as “the greatest mother”. The family indicated the passing brought relief, knowing she would no longer be discomforted by her illness. The condition leading to Dianne’s passing was a medical condition called dementia. This condition does not represent a specific disease, but rather a variety of different symptoms that lead to a decline in cognitive functioning and affect the day-to-day functioning of an individual.
Family members share that Dianne battled dementia for many years before her passing, losing her mental capacities, therefore requiring continued care. Dementia caused Dianne’s death; this condition is not a specific illness, but a collection of signs and symptoms resulting from a progressive decline in cognitive abilities. Her dementia had been diagnosed many years before her death, when she needed constant care due to her mental deterioration and dependence on the care of others.
FAQ’s On Who Was Chuck Norris’ Ex Wife?
Who is the first spouse of Chuck Norris?
Diane Kay Holechek was Chuck Norris’ first spouse; they wed in December 1958 after meeting when they were both in high school.
How long did Chuck Norris and Diane stay together?
Chuck and Diane were together for thirty years before they separated in 1988.
When did Diane Holechek pass away?
On December 21st, 2025, at the age of eighty-four years old (84), Diane passed away.
What caused her death?
Diane passed away as a result of being affected by dementia for quite some time, which caused her mental function to deteriorate over a lengthy period of time.
