Diane N. Cahalane, 84, of Manchester, NH, passed away peacefully on August 8, 2025, after a period of declining health.
Born in Manchester on August 28, 1940, she was the daughter of John and Phyllis (Marshall) Pettengill. Diane was a lifelong resident of Manchester, with the exception of twenty-three cherished years spent in The Villages, Florida, where she embraced the sunshine, friendships, and community spirit before returning to her hometown.
Diane’s career was marked by dedication and leadership, serving for many years as a human resources manager at Modutec before retiring from Jewell Instruments. She valued the relationships she built in her work, many of which became friendships.
A woman of boundless energy and curiosity, Diane found joy in traveling the world, visiting thirty countries and collecting not just souvenirs, but treasured memories. An avid golfer, she was proud to have achieved not just one, but two holes-in-one. Moments that reflected her skill and determination. She delighted in shopping trips, especially to Chico’s, and found comfort in Hallmark movies. A passionate Boston Red Sox fan and proud member of Red Sox Nation in Florida, she enjoyed cheering on her team with loyalty and enthusiasm. Above all, Diane will be remembered for her generous heart, her unwavering kindness, and the love she poured into her family, especially her grandson, Braden, who was the light of her life.
Diane’s life was a beautiful blend of adventure, laughter, and love, and her memory will continue to inspire all who were fortunate enough to know her.
She was predeceased by her beloved husband of forty years, Frederick “Ted” Cahalane, who passed away on March 12, 2021; and by her sister, Susan Demarais.
Family members include two daughters, Tamra Hayes and her fiancé, Chuck Poulicakos, of Manchester, and Anne Marie Hafeman and her husband, Kevin, of Manchester; her grandson, Braden Hafeman; her brother, John Pettengill and his wife, Val; her sister, Jane Trombly; her half-sister, Christie Stone; several nieces and nephews; and many dear friends whose lives she touched.
Services will be private. Burial will take place in Pine Grove Cemetery, Manchester, NH.
The Connor-Healy Funeral Home and Cremation Center, 537 Union Street, Manchester, NH, has the privilege of assisting the family during this time.
In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to Animal Rescue League of New Hampshire, 545 Route 101, Bedford, NH 03110, Friends of Aine Center for Grieving Children & Families, 226 Coolidge Avenue, Manchester, NH 03102, Webster House, 135 Webster Street, Manchester, NH 03104.
For more information, please visit www.connorhealy.com.
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