Diana Josine Pasquinelli

In the mid-afternoon of January 15, 2025, the world lost a vibrant force of nature as Diana "Dinie" Josine, nee Proctor, Pasquinelli took her final journey from this Earth. Born on January 24, 1961 in Chicago, IL, Dinie lived a life that can only be characterized by her defining traits of being loving, compassionate, and spiritual. Her journey through the years left an indelible mark on everyone she encountered, and as we reminisce about her life, we allow the story of this remarkable woman to continue inspiring even in her absence.
Diana is survived by and is the loving wife of David; cherished daughter of Kathleen and the late Edward Proctor; loving mother of David (Amy), Charles (Anna), Emma, and Abigail (Sam); adored grandmother of Reid Edward; devoted sister of Brian (Tina), Ted (Darcy), Laurie (Art) Marchesini, Abbie, and John (Charissa); caring aunt, niece, cousin, and a great and valued friend to many.
She grew up on the South Side of Chicago in Beverly where she attended Sutherland Grammar School and Mother McAuley High School, spent her summers swimming and playing junior golf at Olympia Fields Country Club. OFCC was such a special place for her that she and Dave celebrated their wedding reception there and spent countless days there with their children by the pool in the summers and enjoyed brunch with Santa in the winter.
Her storybook love with David Charles Pasquinelli began in an unforgettable fashion during a chance meeting at the halfway house on the Flossmoor Country Club golf course when they were just 16 years old. That serendipitous encounter was just the beginning- when they met again 7 years later at another chance encounter, David exclaimed to his friends when asked who that girl was with a reply, "That's the girl I am going to marry!" Their lifelong adventure had begun, and they built a strong bond that would lay the foundation for an extraordinary family life.
Dinie and David's four wonderful children became the center of her universe. Her heart also expanded to embrace the next generation with endless affection and devotion as she welcomed her beloved grandchild, Reid Pasquinelli, with open arms and a heart full of love.
The Proctor and Pasquinelli families frequently came together to weave a colorful tapestry of experiences at their shared Florida beach house, further cementing family bonds through sun-kissed days and breezy ocean nights. Her commitment to staying active and healthy also led Dinie and David to open The Local Workout in Western Springs, an establishment that quickly became a haven for community wellness and fitness.
A passionate lover of life's myriad experiences, Dinie found joy in a plethora of activities that showcased her zest for adventure. She was an avid skier, finding both peace and exhilaration on the crisp slopes of Aspen with her family and friends. The cherished sanctuary of the Pasquinelli family lakehouse was a testament to her love for water and nature's tranquil beauty, where memories were created and laughter echoed across the beach.
She graduated from Miami of Ohio that led to her illustrious career in hospitality with the Hyatt and Hilton Hotel Chains that was marked by a significant milestone when she became the face of a national advertising campaign for Hyatt, gracing the pages of countless magazines. This achievement did not just reflect her professional success, but also the spirit of elegance and charisma she radiated naturally.
Dinie's spirit was evident from a young age, emerging as a formidable competitive swimmer who embraced every challenge with fearlessness and determination. Her bravery extended beyond sports as she took a bold leap and moved to Japan, representing the Hyatt Hotel Group when they sought American representation. Her success in such a foreign environment was a testament to her adaptability and adventurous spirit, marking her as a truly inspiring figure.
Her illustrious career in hospitality with the Hyatt Hotel Chain was marked by a significant milestone when she became the face of a national advertising campaign, gracing the pages of countless magazines. This achievement did not just reflect her professional success, but also the spirit of elegance and charisma she radiated naturally.
Dinie's life was a testament to the power of dreams and perseverance. Her courage to pursue opportunities ignited a similar passion in those who knew her, motivating them to explore their potential fearlessly. Her story reflects more than a mere sequence of dates and events-it is a reminder of what it means to live fully, love fiercely, and leave an indelible legacy.
As we remember Dinie, we will gather to honor and celebrate her vibrant life. Visitation will take place at Sullivan Funeral Home, 60 S. Grant Street, Hinsdale on Monday, January 20, 2025, from 3:00pm-8:00pm. Her life and spirit will be celebrated in a Funeral Mass at St. Francis Xavier Church, 124 N. Spring Ave, LaGrange, on Tuesday, January 21, 2025, at 10:00am. All are asked to meet directly at Church for Mass. Her interment will take place in a private ceremony, honoring the intimacy of her family connections.
Following Mas, a Celebration of Life will be held at Chicago Highlands in Westchester, IL. This gathering will reflect Dinie's joy for life and the convivial spirit she showed to all, bringing together friends and family to share stories, laughter, and affection in honor of the extraordinary person she was.
In the legacy she leaves behind, Dinie will be remembered as a beacon of love, a pillar of strength, and a source of unending encouragement. Her life was a testament to the beautiful potential within us all. Though she has departed this earthly realm, her spirit, lessons, and love will continue to guide us as we navigate our own journeys. We pay tribute to her life's orchestra, a symphony of experiences, challenges, joys, and unyielding devotion that will forever remain in our hearts.
Diana "Dinie" Josine, nee Proctor, Pasquinelli – loving wife, mother, grandmother, aunt, sister, friend, and inspirer – will be dearly missed but never forgotten. Let her life's story remain a vivid reminder for us all to live boldly, love deeply, and hold dearly the ties that bind us together.
In lieu of flowers, donations in Diana's name would be appreciated to the following organizations: Misericordia, The Wellness House in Hinsdale, Culinary Care, Ronald McDonald House, or the charity of your choice.
Arrangements by Sullivan Funeral Home, 630-323-0275 or www.sullivanfuneralhomehinsdale.com.