Photo courtesy of Nelson Funeral Home
Jul 9, 1955 - May 21, 2025
.Darlene donny and linda I am stunned by Diane's passing. I've known all of the Nelson family since 60s and I've always thought of her as my sister, seeing her at my neices family's party's I hugged her cried seeing her. Special person
God bless her daughters,
Kathryn ann Davidson borrelli
June 06, 2025 | Freeport, IL | Classmate
Dear Darlene and family, I had the pleasure in meeting Diane a few times with Darlene as I am Darlene's neighbor. I am so sorry for your loss, my prayers are with you during this difficult time. Beth Gontjes
Beth Gontjes
May 30, 2025 | ARLINGTON HEIGHTS, IL | Neighbor
Dear Darlene and family, I did have the pleasure of meeting Diane through you darlene she would drive us to church. She was a very, very kind girl a very funny woman and I’m sure very loved and she will be very missed. I am so sorry for your loss.
sheila O’Keefe ((infelise)
May 28, 2025 | Woodstock, IL | Friend
Love Donna
Donna Wilson
May 26, 2025 | Chicago, IL
I was so blessed to reconnect with her this past summerwe were 1st cousins that grew up together almost daily when we were kids! I will love and miss her always
Carrie Biron
May 25, 2025 | Family
Diane R. Schaefer (neé Nelson), age 69, passed away peacefully, joining her beloved late husband, Louis H. Schaefer. A devoted mother, proud grandmother,loving sister, caring aunt and cherished friend, Diane lived a life marked by unwavering strength, deep compassion, and quiet resilience.
She was the loving mother of Victoria (Eric) Pingul and Kristina Schaefer, and the proud grandmother of Brianna and Emma, who brought immeasurable joy to her life. Diane’s strength was matched only by the love she poured into her family—always putting others before herself, even as she faced her own battles with courage and grace. Diane was also the fond sister of Linda (Tom) McKillop, Darlene Nelson, and Donald (Pat) Nelson; fun loving aunt and great-aunt to many.
She is also preceded in death by her brother Gary (Karen) Nelson, parents Arthur W. Nelson and LaVerne R. Nelson (neé Nichols), and sister in-law Evelyn (the late John) Schmitz.
Throughout her life, Diane carried not only her own burdens, but often the weight of others’ struggles as well, offering support, comfort, and never ending love without hesitation. Her selflessness, loyalty, and quiet wisdom made her a true friend to many and a guiding light to those who knew her best.
Though she has left this world, Diane’s spirit lives on in the hearts of those who were fortunate enough to know her. Her love, strength, and example will never be forgotten.
Visitation, Friday, May 30, 4:00 to 8:00 p.m. with a prayer service taking place beginning at 6:00 p.m., Nelson Funeral Home, 820 Talcott Rd. Park Ridge, interment to be held privately. Additional parking for the visitation is available in the vacant lot next door to the funeral home.
For information, 847-823-5122.
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