MENDOCINO CO., 12/24/25 – A woman who died after being swept out to sea at a Mendocino Coast beach Monday has been identified as 77-year-old Diane Wittig of Fort Bragg, a family member said.
According to the Mendocino County Sheriff’s Office, Wittig was swept off a rock by a large wave and into the ocean. Bystanders pulled her from the water, but she became unresponsive and lost consciousness on the beach. Bystanders attempted resuscitation efforts before first responders arrived, but Wittig was pronounced dead at the scene, the Sheriff’s Office said.
The Sheriff’s Office requested help Tuesday identifying Wittig, who did not have any identifying documents with her at the time of her death.
Family member Kristen Loomer contacted The Mendocino Voice on Tuesday evening to confirm Wittig’s identity.
According to Loomer, a 22-year-old man dove into the ocean in an attempt to save Wittig. “We hope to connect with him to give our thanks and deepest gratitude for risking his life,” she said.
Born Diane Granskog, Wittig was a Fort Bragg native and attended Fort Bragg High School. Known to family as “Diney,” she was a petite, high-energy woman who was always up for an adventure.
“She was a force,” Loomer said.
She was the most caring and kind woman. We were neighbors and there was never a time when we crossed paths that we didn’t have a wonderful conversation. I will miss her kindness… our conversations… and just her positive energy she brought to all of my family. ♥️😢♥️
Sneaker waves very dzngerous… she lived there all her life she should if known stay away.. her fault in a way too bad she did not use her judgement…
Wow. You win the gold plated empathy award this year.
I’m sure her family could have gone without seeing this post, a little harsh don’t you think?
I have a little trouble understanding why she would be there like that since there have been warnings out now for quite some time about the big waves and sneaker waves. She’s from there so how did she not understand that? She will be missed and my heart goes out to her family and friends. Sometimes we just don’t know.
RIP.. you will be forever missed!
I’m concerned that there are comments on here that basically blame this poor lady for this unfortunate accident. Were you there? Do you know why she was? How you can you presume to pass judgment on someone like that? Have a little compassion if not for this person whom just passed, then maybe for her family ❤️ May she rest peacefully in a better place, and I’ll keep her family in my prayers 🙏
Exactly!!! What is wrong with people??? If people question why she was out there just because you can say something on social media doesn’t mean you need to!
Exactly!!! What is wrong with people??? If people question why she was out there just because you can say something on social media doesn’t mean you need to!
I met the brave young man with his friends the day after this tragic event. I have his name & number.
Sending all my deepest condolences to the family & friends.
I will contact the paper with this information.
For those questioning why she was there, just don’t. Obviously others were there as well. It could have happened to anyone. It was an unfortunate accident and her family is grieving. Please don’t add to their pain.
My heartfelt condolences to her family. And to the rescuers for their brave efforts, gathering their love ones around them for comfort.
My deepest condolences to her family and friends. May God rest her soul.
People are acting as if they’ve never stood on a coastal rock watching the epic ocean scene in Mendo. RIP Diane.
This is deeply saddening news about Ms. Wittig. The power of the ocean on the Mendocino Coast is often underestimated. It makes you wonder about the visibility of warning signs at that specific location. Thinking of her family during this difficult time.