Diane Walsh Hain

Diane Walsh Hain, 67, of Hershey, passed away peacefully on Monday, August 13, 2018 surrounded by her family.

She was born May 12, 1951 in Chester, PA, daughter of the late Joseph and Zora (Linta) Walsh. Her family moved to Hershey in 1961, and she graduated from Hershey High in 1969. Diane went on to study at Penn State (Mont Alto and Capital campuses), graduating with a degree in public policy. For most of her career, she was a researcher with the Insurance Committee of the PA House of Representatives, later becoming Executive Director of the House Agriculture and Rural Affairs Committee until she retired in 2010. A respected public servant, Diane was devoted to crafting legislation that was in the best interest of the people.

Diane had broad interests in music and the arts, becoming a member of numerous organizations. Among them: the P.G. Wodehouse Society (Plum Crazies, Carlisle), World Culture Club of Central Pennsylvania, American Association of University Women (AAUW), and the Junior League. Inspired by her love of music, she had served as President of the Hershey Symphony. When her children were young, growing up in Carlisle, Diane would host the annual Creekview Heights Talent Show, encouraging neighborhood kids to showcase their talents singing, dancing, and playing instruments. She was a member of two book clubs (Hershey Library and AAUW). Diane had a strong social conscience, and she was passionate about issues such as Equal Pay for Women and Death With Dignity. She was known to invite homeless women from Bethesda Mission to accompany her to the symphony. She also loved to travel, and recently visited Ireland, London (with The Fulton), and the Pacific Northwest for her niece's wedding.

Diane is survived by her husband of 19 years, Edward M. Hain of Hershey. She was a loving mother to daughters Wendy Keenan (husband Andrew) of Washington, DC and Jennifer Minich of Olympia, WA. She was fondly known as "Grannie" by grandchildren Carter (12), Zolie (7), Maxwell (5), Zoe (3), and Lucy (1). She also is survived by step children, Michelle Hain of Quentin, Jefferey Hain of W. Reading, and Rebecca Shtofman (husband Michael) of Castle Rock, CO; favorite brother, Brian Walsh; greatly admired sisters, Evelyn Ridge and Zorina Keiser; and numerous nieces and nephews.

As per Diane's wishes, there will be a private celebration of her life at the convenience of the family.

In lieu of flowers, the family prefers memorial contributions be made to Hospice of Central PA and to your favorite live theatre group and/or performing arts.

Hoover Funeral Homes & Crematory, Inc.,of Hershey is handling the cremation arrangements.