Diane loved life and she loved the Huskers! She attended the Opportunity Center in Fremont during her school years, which was a special school for the handicapped and mentally challenged. Following her schooling, she worked at the ENCOR workshop with many of her friends. After her health kept her from going to the workshop, she continued to do "home work" as she called it.
Diane was active in Special Olympics playing basketball and bowling, and she loved so much to brag about her scores! Her proudest day was when she got to "graduate" from reading, complete with graduation gown, hat, diploma, and ceremony at her home.
She was active in the "Special Sunday School Class" at St. Timothy Lutheran Church, led by many wonderful caring "teachers". Diane loved singing in the choir.
Diane leaves behind her parents, Bob and Barbara, sisters Debra Hitchler (and husband Dan). Denise Shannon, niece Jessica Hitchler, and nephew Tyler Hitchler (and wife Breanna), as well as many loving aunts, uncles, cousins, friends, and her special friend and reading teacher, Diane Bell.
The funeral service will be 10:30 AM Thursday (January 12, 2012) at St. Timothy Lutheran Church with the Rev. John Plowman officiating. The committal will follow in Memorial Cemetery.
Visitation at the Ludvigsen Mortuary, Fremont, will be on Wednesday from 2 to 8 PM, with the family present from 6 to 8 PM.
Condolences(15)
Crystal Madsen
Lincoln, NE Thursday, February 16, 2012 I was one of the nurses to care for Diane at Madonna Rehab Hospital. I would like to express my sympathy for all of Diane's family, especially the few of you I was able to meet and talk with during her stay at Madonna. Those of us who cared for Diane feel extremely lucky to have gotten to know her a little, and to have seen that beautiful smile! I am so sorry for your loss, and will be thinking of you.Pat Cranford
Winston Salem, NC Tuesday, January 17, 2012 To Denise, so sorry for the loss of your sister Diane, it was so obvious how very very special she was to you. I'm sure she will always have a special eye on you watching from above. I know you were a great sister! Blessing to you, hope to see you again, PatGenelle Hargens
Morse Bluff, Ne Monday, January 16, 2012 To Diane's family, Please accept my deepest sympathy in your loss. My thoughts and prayers are with you during this time of loss. Genelle Hargensjennifer butler
, ne Saturday, January 14, 2012 so sorry to here about daine she was a very nice lady she always said hi to us when she seen us she will be missJames Schmoll
Uehling, NE Thursday, January 12, 2012 My deepest sympathy to all the family and friends that knew Diane. I knew her for only a short time and what a really nice person she was. You taught me many things Diane - I WILL miss you!!!!! My prayers are with you all.David Probst
Fremont, NE Thursday, January 12, 2012 Dear Barb and Bob I just heard that Diane went home to the Lord. We will miss her smile, but we can always remember that she is now smiling with Jesus. May God continue to be with you during these difficult times.Judy Dumler
scottsdale,, az Wednesday, January 11, 2012 Diane, you impacted each of us in ways you will never know but will be appreciated forever. We will always remember your smiles and positive attitude and interest in others. Judy & Denny DumlerCindy Hinkel
fremont,, ne Tuesday, January 10, 2012 just a note to say Diane will be missed, she always had a smile and hello for everyone. the "special" classes sunday school students SHINE with the knowledge of God's love and are an inspiration to us all. Thank you and God Bless you DianeDan Beckwith
Omaha, NE Tuesday, January 10, 2012 Dear Bobby & Barb, I was saddened to learn of Diane's death, yet the quality of her life was so very richly filled with love, compassion and caring. Her life is a tribute to you both. God bless. Dan BeckwithNikki Hendrickson
Omaha, Ne Tuesday, January 10, 2012 Never have I seen so much love and joy as i had in Diane. What a beautiful person I will always remember her to be. You all will always have a special place in my heart.Mary Shannon
Vancouver, Wa Monday, January 9, 2012 I never got the chance to really get to know you but I loved you a lot. I am very sadden that I won't get to know you better. But I know your in a Wonderful place that is only Happiness and Love. That is what I wish for your Sisters and Mom and Dad. I do love you all Very Much. Your cousin Mary ShannonBrenda Goldberg Partusch
, Monday, January 9, 2012 My sincerest sympathy to the family! My thoughts and prayers are with you all at this time of loss.Denise Shannon
Hastings, NE Monday, January 9, 2012 I miss you sissy. You will never be forgotten. Thank you for all that you've taught me. You were a special gift and I was blessed to have you as a sister. I will see you again Anniebelle. I love you!!! Forever, Pee-Weejanice pascoe
fremont, ne Sunday, January 15, 2012 Barb and Family: My condolences to you and the family. She really was a very special person and now she is sharing her love with everyone in heaven.Diane taught us that life is just what you make it and she loved every part of it. Your family was blessed with Diane and she also was blessed with parents that gave her plenty of love and a happiness in her home. janice p.Gene, Pat, and Christina Layman
Plumerville, AR Monday, January 9, 2012 Please accept our heartfelt sympathy in the passing of Diane.