Diane Plese Biography: A Look Into Her Life Before and After Divorce

Diane Plese may not be a household name in the entertainment world, but her association with Robert Herjavec—the multimillionaire entrepreneur and TV personality—catapulted her into the public eye. Known for her discretion and professionalism, Diane built her own successful career as an optometrist in Canada long before her husband’s media stardom. Her story is one of quiet strength, personal sacrifice, and resilience. Despite the fame that surrounded her ex-husband, Diane chose to lead a life rooted in family and privacy. This article explores her journey from a respected medical professional to a woman who found herself unexpectedly linked with the celebrity world.

Quick Bio

Early Life and Career in Optometry

Diane Plese was born in Canada to Croatian immigrant parents who instilled strong values of discipline, education, and family. Growing up in a traditional household, Diane was encouraged to pursue a stable and impactful career. She chose optometry—a profession that reflects both compassion and precision. With a natural inclination toward the sciences and an empathetic personality, she thrived in her field. Her career as an eye doctor earned her respect in her community, where she became known for her patient care and professionalism. Unlike many who seek the limelight, Diane’s focus was always on her work and the well-being of those around her.

How Diane Met Robert Herjavec

The story of how Diane met Robert Herjavec is almost serendipitous. In the early 1990s, Robert visited her eye clinic for a routine appointment. At the time, he was far from the globally recognized face of Shark Tank. He was a tech entrepreneur with big dreams, and Diane was the dedicated professional who would eventually become his partner in life. Their relationship blossomed quickly, rooted in shared values and mutual respect. In 1990, they tied the knot, beginning a new chapter filled with ambition, family life, and the challenges that come with building an empire from the ground up.

Building a Life Together: Marriage and Family

Diane and Robert Herjavec’s marriage spanned over two decades, a rarity in the world of high-profile relationships. During this time, Diane provided emotional and familial support while Robert worked tirelessly to build his IT company, BRAK Systems, which he eventually sold for millions. They welcomed three children into their lives and raised them with a focus on education, humility, and hard work. Diane was a hands-on mother, often stepping away from her professional commitments to ensure her children received a balanced upbringing. Despite Robert’s growing fame, she remained grounded, shielding their children from the limelight as much as possible.

Life in the Shadow of Stardom

As Robert Herjavec’s career soared, especially with his role on Shark Tank and Dragons’ Den, Diane continued to maintain her privacy. Her approach was graceful and deliberate—choosing not to indulge in the glamour and chaos that often follows celebrity spouses. While many would have leveraged their connection for fame or business opportunities, Diane remained focused on her family and profession. She rarely gave interviews or made public appearances, embodying an aura of dignity and restraint. Her refusal to capitalize on her husband’s fame speaks volumes about her character and values.

The Separation and Divorce

The couple’s seemingly strong union came to an unexpected end when they announced their separation in 2014, followed by a finalized divorce in 2016. The split shocked fans and the media alike, especially considering their long-standing marriage. According to reports, the marriage had begun to strain under the pressures of fame, personal differences, and emotional distance. Diane remained silent on the details, while Robert publicly admitted that the divorce was one of the most challenging periods in his life. The split was reportedly amicable, and Diane was awarded a significant financial settlement, rumored to be in the tens of millions—a reflection of Robert’s considerable wealth.

Life After Divorce: A Return to Privacy

Following her divorce, Diane Plese retreated even further from the public eye. She resumed her private lifestyle, choosing to avoid media scrutiny and gossip columns. Unlike many celebrity ex-wives, she didn’t publish memoirs, join reality shows, or seek a spotlight of her own. Instead, she focused on her children, personal well-being, and professional life. Her post-divorce journey is a testament to her enduring strength and commitment to a life lived on her own terms. In a world that often rewards sensationalism, Diane’s quiet dignity offers a refreshing contrast.

Relationship with Her Children

Throughout the ups and downs of her personal life, Diane Plese has remained a devoted mother. She shares three children with Robert Herjavec—two daughters and a son—who have largely stayed away from the public eye, much like their mother. Diane’s influence is evident in their private, grounded lives. She prioritized their mental and emotional well-being over fame, instilling in them the importance of education, kindness, and discretion. While Robert has occasionally spoken about his children in interviews, Diane has consistently respected their privacy, underscoring her role as a mother first and foremost.

Public Perception and Legacy

Despite being a largely private figure, Diane Plese has earned a positive public perception over the years. She is often admired for her grace, intelligence, and unwavering commitment to her values. Her story resonates with many women who support their spouses’ ambitions while nurturing a home and career of their own. Diane’s legacy is not just tied to her former marriage but also to the example she sets as a professional, a mother, and an individual who navigated fame with humility and strength. She represents the many unsung women who are the backbone of successful families.

Current Whereabouts and Future Outlook

As of now, little is known about Diane Plese’s current activities. She has not remarried or publicly discussed her personal life post-divorce. It’s assumed that she continues to reside in Canada, maintaining a close relationship with her children. Her decision to remain private in a world obsessed with oversharing is both rare and commendable. While she may never return to the public spotlight, Diane’s story will continue to inspire conversations about strength, privacy, and the sacrifices made behind the scenes of public success.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. What is Diane Plese known for?

• Diane Plese is best known as the ex-wife of Shark Tank star Robert Herjavec and for her career as a Canadian optometrist.

2. How did Diane Plese and Robert Herjavec meet?

• They met when Robert visited her eye clinic for an appointment in the early 1990s, which led to their eventual marriage.

3. How long were Diane and Robert Herjavec married?

• They were married for 26 years, from 1990 until their divorce in 2016.

4. Does Diane Plese have children?

• Yes, Diane Plese has three children with Robert Herjavec—two daughters and a son.

5. Is Diane Plese in the public eye today?

• No, Diane has maintained a very private life following her divorce and has largely stayed out of the media.