Diane Richards

1945 - 2025

Diane Richards
Born: December 1, 1945
Died: January 20, 2025 in Joliet, IL
Diane McLaren Richards Passed away peacefully at the age of 79 on Monday January 20, 2025. Diane was born in Joliet on December 1, 1945, the eldest daughter of the late Stephen David and Agnes (Karpel) McLaren.
She is survived by her children Son, Jeffrey (Patti) Richards, Chicago, IL. Her devoted and loving Daughter, Renee (Paul) Busdiecker of Nashville, TN. Grandchildren Joe and Jack Richards cherished and devoted Grandchildren Max McLaren and Ruby Lin Ford. Survived by her siblings, Patrick (Georgia) McLaren of Las Vegas, NV and Linda McLaren of Joliet. Also survived by numerous Aunts and cousins of the Karpel and McLaren Families.
She was a successful medical professional during her early career. She became a successful business owner of 15 years where she made lasting friendships within the community through her ownership of the video store, Video Vibes. In her later years she was a compassionate caregiver to many families in the area.
Her extraordinary baking and cooking skills were unmatched. She especially loved Making the family recipe for potica with her late Aunt Anne (Karpel) and Uncle Earl Schoeneck, and late Cousin Lisa Peart and Cousin Margaret Santolin who survives her.
She leaves behind numerous amazing recipes, a bounty of joyous memories and a huge hole in the hearts of those that loved her and knew her.
She had a passion for solving crosswords, reading books, watching movies, music, sewing, quilting, animals, and Chicago sports teams. Her jeopardy and trivia skills were unrivaled. During her golfing days she scored a Hole-in-One at Joliet Park District Inwood Golf Course.
She is lovingly remembered for being a loyal and generous friend to so many. She always lent a compassionate ear to those that needed one. She loved her family, kids and grandkids wholeheartedly, and cherished visits with them.
Her final years were spent residing at Alden Estates of Shorewood, where she was lovingly taken care of by a staff that adored her, and she adored in return. Our gratitude to everyone at Alden who took care of her while she was a resident.
A memorial Celebration of Life mass will be held on January 31, 2025 at Holy Family Church, 600 Brook Forest Ave, Shorewood, IL at 10 am. John Pisut funeral director. Interment will be private. Donations can be made to Lightways Hospice and Serious Care or to Guardian Angel Bassett Rescue or to a charity of your choice.