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Diane Puma Obituary
Born: July 24, 1945; in Hammond, IN
Died: April 13, 2017; in Barrington, IL
Diane Puma, 71, a long time resident of Crystal Lake, passed away peacefully on Thursday, April 13, 2017 at JourneyCare Hospice in Barrington, two-and-a-half years after being diagnosed with pancreatic cancer.
She was born July 24, 1945 in Hammond, Ind. to Walter and Eleanor (nee Bartnik) Kasper. Diane grew up in Hegwisch and East Side in Chicago and attended St. Francis de Sales grade school and St. Willibrord High School. She attended Northern Illinois University and left just before graduating to teach in the Chicago Catholic schools. On October 16, 1966, she married Robert Puma and they enjoyed over 51 years of marriage. She left teaching to raise her three boys. She returned to work when her sons were older, serving as the principal's secretary at Crystal Lake South High School for 25 years, a job she truly loved.
Diane spent thousands of hours watching her sons' sporting events and made life-long friends while sitting in the bleachers. She was a huge Notre Dame football fan and, with Bob, attended almost every home game for over 20 years. Diane cherished the times she watched her grandchildren's performances and sporting events. She loved spending time with her family, cousins and friends, especially when it meant having a home-cooked meal or going out to eat. Upon retiring, she spent the winters in The Villages, Fla., where she avoided the cold weather and hosted family and friends. You always knew when Diane was around because you would be sure to hear her infectious laugh which filled the room.
She is survived by her husband, Robert Puma; her children, Scott and his wife, Lisa, David, and Jeff and his wife, Amy; her grandchildren, Hannah, Josh, Jackson, and Evelyn; her brother, Len Kasper (Carol); her sister-in-law, Sheila Pietrie (Joe); and many cousins, nieces, nephews and friends.
She is preceded in death by her parents, Walter and Eleanor Kasper; her in-laws, Salvatore and Sally Puma; and numerous aunts and uncles.
The family will receive guests from 3:00 to 9:00 pm, Tuesday, April 18, 2017 at Davenport Family Funeral Home, 419 E. Terra Cotta Ave. (Rt. 176), Crystal Lake. Prayers will be said at 10:00 am, Wednesday, April 19, 2017 at the funeral home, proceeding to St. Thomas the Apostle Catholic Church, 451 E. Terra Cotta Ave. (Rt. 176 and Oak St.), Crystal Lake, for Mass at 10:30 am. Burial will be held at Windridge Memorial Park in Cary.
In lieu of flowers, please consider making a donation in Diane's name to the Pancreatic Cancer Action Network, www.pancan.org.
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
Memories and Condolences
for Diane Puma
Sponsored by Davenport Family Funeral Home - Crystal Lake - Crystal Lake.
Robert Morrison
March 16, 2018
Bob,I just learned that you lost Diane. I am truly sorry about that. We all work for many years hoping for a lengthy retirement. Sometimes it just doesn't happen for us. Maureen and I would love to see you if you ever get Dow to the Cincinnati area. Hope you are well. Regards, Bob
Sam & Bobbie Genovese
April 29, 2017
We were fortunate to meet the Pumas in the Christian Family Movement when our kids were small. Through the years we maintained our friendship, sharing stories about our children's journeys into adulthood. Where Bob and Diane were, you would surely find laughter. We so enjoyed them! As time passed and we went in different directions, we connected occasionally, reminiscing about the "olden days" and praying as Diane met her health issues head-on. We were saddened to hear that she lost the last battle. A light has gone out in the starry skies, but a new light glows in Heaven! Our condolences to Bob and family.
April 18, 2017
While Diane was only a part of my life for a very short time, I so very much enjoyed each and every moment I got to spend with her and with Bob. My deepest sympathies are with you Bob,and your family at this time. I'm so glad she came home to her family and enjoyed the remainder of her life surrounded by those she cherished. Her face lit up with joy every time she spoke of each and every one of you. I am truly blessed to have been a small part of her life.
Deeta Smith
Tavares, FL
Anne Burns
April 18, 2017
Diane was the best mom South ever had. She make everyone feel good. If you needed a pick me up, an ear to listen, candy, and a good laugh sent you out the door smiling. Rest in peace dear lady...
Brendan Hayes
April 18, 2017
When I was a new teacher at South, she made me feel truly comfortable and at home. Diane was always there with a smile and her very distinctive laugh. She was one of the kindest people I have ever known. My heart and prayers are with her and her family.
Jim and Sue Seaman
April 18, 2017
We met Diane and Bob at the Track picnic during ND Freshman Orientation Weekend 1994. After the first indoor meet, we found ourselves at the Spaghetti's restaurant with our sons for dinner. We decided then that we'd have dinner together the next time. That next time turned into the most wonderful of friendships! Distance separates us, but the love endures. Early in March, we were able to spend a few hours with Bob and Diane at their home in The Villages. I think the four of us knew it was the last time we'd all be together. But the friendship was just the same.
The whole Seaman Family is saddened by Diane's death. We cherish her memory. Our hearts are with you!
Beth Carpenter
April 18, 2017
My sincere condolences to Diane's family and all who knew and loved her. It was my good fortune to have known Diane for nearly 60 years. She was always known for her kindness, helpfulness and energy in all situations. She will be missed.
jessica balousek
April 18, 2017
As the days and weeks pass, and as you return to life's routine, may you continue to feel comforted by the love and support of family and friends.
April 18, 2017
My thoughts and prayers are with you in your time of grief. May your memories bring you comfort.
Sherri Martinie
April 17, 2017
Our deepest condolences. It is so difficult to lose a parent. She is a very special lady. Hold your memories close to your heart. Hugs to you all.
Anne Majewski
April 17, 2017
Our deepest sympathies to Bob, Scott and the entire Puma family. Diane faced her illness with grace and courage. She is a model of Christian faith to all.
The Majewskis
NANCY & JERRY STILLING
April 17, 2017
OUR CONDOLENCES TO THE ENTIRE PUMA FAMILY.
Anita Theodore
April 17, 2017
My sympathies to the Puma family. Diane's sincerity and warmth encouraged new teachers at CLS throughout the years. Many people mention her laugh--you knew exactly who was laughing when you heard it! She was one heck of a lady.
Diane and John Kitchell
April 17, 2017
Dear Puma Family,
Bob, Scott, Dave, Jeff, Lisa, Amy, Hannah and Josh,
Our deepest condolences go out to you at this difficult time. Diane did have an a great laugh! Her love will endure!
Our thoughts and prayers go out to you all. Diane, John, Jessica and Lindsey Kitchell
Peggy Gorman
April 17, 2017
My thoughts and prayers are with your family Diane. You were one of my guiding lights. You opened your arms and welcomed me into the fold when I came on board. I'll never forget some of our lunch dates where we would share our ups and downs, always managing to turn tears into laughter. You will be missed. I thank God for the time I was able to spend with you.
Ken Greenfield
April 17, 2017
My sympathy to family and friends of Diane. I will always remember her ever-present smile. She brightened the day of everyone that walked into her office.
Marilyn and Arnie Kay
April 17, 2017
Our deepest sympathy to you Bob and all of the family. We always loved being around Diane and her laughter was so infectious. We are sorry that we can't be there to honor Diane but we are in Tucson. Please know that our prayers and thoughts are with you, the boys and their families.
Brian Murphy
April 17, 2017
Mrs. Puma took me in like I was one of her sons when I began teaching at South in 2002. And when she found out I too was a Notre Dame fan... that was all she needed to know! She regularly sought me out when her and her husband had an extra ticket for a Notre Dame Saturday. Her laugh and smile made any day better... you will be missed Mrs. Puma... GO IRISH. Thoughts and prayers to the entire Puma family.
Marcy & Dick Calkins
April 16, 2017
Our deepest condolences, Bob and family. The world has dimmed and is less bright without our Diane Puma in it. Might she already be making others feel welcome, comfortable, and laughing? May she be organizing, orchestrating, and cheering others? Bet she is
Vicky Roberts
April 16, 2017
Diane's smile and friendly nature were felt and appreciated by all those with whom she came in contact. She WAS the heart ❤ of Crystal Lake South High School. My condolences to family and friends for this tremendous loss.
Gloria & Tom Franko
April 15, 2017
Our deepest sympathy to Bob and his children. Diane's beaming smile & personality will remain in our hearts. What a precious lady..she will be missed by many. May Our Lord embrace her loved ones through this difficult time.
Tom & Jan Dovidio
April 15, 2017
Our thoughts and prayers are with you, Bob, and all your family. What a privilege it was to know Diane - always so upbeat even during her health challenges. We will miss her smile and her energy. May God comfort all of you as He holds Diane in His arms.
Bill & Sara Bligh
April 15, 2017
Our love and prayers for Bob and all of the Puma family. It was a blessing to know Diane. She will be missed by so many. May the promise of Easter be a source of comfort and strength. In Notre Dame, Bill, Sara and Tim
Angelo Angelos
April 14, 2017
May God bless your soul Mrs Puma. I was so sad to hear of this today. My condolences to the Puma family.
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