Diane Kay Chappel
January 29, 1950 - November 12, 2025
Vandalia, Illinois - Diane Kay (Ammann) Chappel, age 75 of Vandalia, IL passed away Wednesday, November 12, 2025 at Barnes Jewish Hospital in St. Louis, MO.
Diane was born January 29, 1950 in Highland, IL, the daughter of Lester and Laverna (Wiese) Ammann. Diane was a devoted mother, grandmother, and woman of deep faith, she passed away surrounded by her family. Diane spent almost 13 years working as a court reporter before joining LeFevre, Zeman, Oldfield, and Lawinger Law Group. She later joined SIUE, where she dedicated 25 years of service and retired this past July.
Diane's faith was the foundation of her life. Her strength, compassion, and unwavering love were felt by everyone who knew her. She cherished her children and her 13 grandchildren, loving each of them with her whole heart.
A gifted baker and passionate gardener, Diane found joy in creating a warm home filled with sweetness, beauty, and family. Her gracious spirit and gentle presence will be deeply missed.
She leaves behind a legacy of faith, love, and strength that will forever live on in the hearts of those she loved.
Diane is survived by her children, Chris Chappel & Beth of Edwardsville, IL, Ryan Chappel & Meagan of Bingham, IL, Melissa (Chappel) Lounsbury & Ken of Magnolia, TX, and Megan (Chappel) Miller & Kyle of Oswego, IL; grandchildren, Jack, Kynlee, Dylan, Karter, Elijah, Lydia, Brynley, Maybel, Cameron, Hayden, Franky, Milo, and Kelby; and brother, Dennis Ammann & Karen, of Ellisville, MO.
She was preceded in death by her parents, Lester and Laverna Ammann.
Mass of Christian burial will be held at 10:00 a.m. on Saturday, November 22, 2025 at Mother of Dolors Catholic Church in Vandalia, IL with Father Seth Brown officiating. Burial will follow at Highland Cemetery in Highland, IL. Visitation will be held from 5:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. on Friday, November 21, 2025 at Miller Funeral Home in Vandalia, IL. Memorial donations may be made to Mother of Dolors Catholic Church. Miller Funeral Home, Vandalia, IL is in charge of arrangements. Online memories and condolences may be shared with the family at
www.millerfh.net.
Published by Belleville News-Democrat from Nov. 17 to Nov. 19, 2025.