Racine – Diane Margaret (nee: Peden) Brooks, age 43; passed away at Hospice Alliance – Racine Hospice House, surrounded with the love of her family and friends, on Saturday, January 3, 2015 following a courageous 4-year battle with cervical cancer.
Diane was born in Racine on April 6, 1971 to Leonard and Judith (nee: Sorenson) Peden. A 1989 graduate of Jerome I. Case High school, she went on to earn an Associate’s degree in Marketing from Gateway Technical College. On July 27, 1996 at Evangelical United Methodist Church, Diane was united in marriage with the love of her life, John Arthur Brooks.
Diane’s working career included Things Remembered, accounting jobs with Greene Glass, Wheaton Franciscan – All Saints and the Racine Family YMCA. Most recently, and up until the time of her death, she worked at All Saints in the pre-registration department. Among her hobbies, Diane had a large collection of cow memorabilia; bowled and supported her family’s interest in bowling and softball; was a Girl Scout leader and PTA member; attended many Brewer games with her family; relaxed in front of the T.V. to catch up on her “shows”; enjoyed family trips to Wisconsin Dells and Florida (Disney) and, according to her daughter, Miley…..Diane loved the colors “pink & purple”. Above all, Diane was all about her daughters. She was a loving wife and amazingly devoted Mother…who loved nothing more than being together with her entire family.
Surviving are her husband of nearly 19 years, John; beautiful daughters, Morgan Brooks (age 15) and Miley Brooks (age 7); father and step-mother, Leonard & Mary Lou Peden; brothers, Joel (Sue) Peden and Michael (Kristen) Peden; sister-in-law, Phyllis (Steven) Mertins; brothers-in-law, Robert (Kristy) Brooks and Joseph (Lisa) Brooks; special nephew (of whom was like a son), Gregory Brooks; other nieces, nephews, relatives, co-workers and many, many dear friends – too numerous to mention all by name.
Diane was preceded in death by her mother, Judith Ann Peden; and by John’s parents, Arthur and Rosalie (nee: Bobber) Brooks.
Funeral services will be held on Friday, January 9, 2015 at 11:00 am in Evangelical United Methodist Church, 212 – 11th Street, with Rev. Dr. Creighton Kaye officiating. Internment will take place in West Lawn Memorial Park. A Life Celebration Luncheon will follow at Roma Lodge. Visitation will be in the Draeger-Langendorf Funeral Home on Thursday from 4 – 8 pm and in the church on Friday from 10 – 11 am. Memorials to the family (for the benefit of Morgan & Miley’s education) have been suggested.
A heartfelt note of thanks to absolutely everybody who overwhelmingly supported Diane during the past four years. The countless acts of kindness, whether big or small, were so much appreciated by Diane and our entire family. May God bless all of you!!
Darren and Angelique Furtneyn and Family says
Our sincere condolences on your loss. You are in our prayers and thoughts.
The Johnson Family says
Our deepest sympathy to all of you. Diane was a very sweet woman and will be deeply missed. You are in our thoughts and prayers. Stan, Deb, and Courtney Johnson
Cindy Stuesser says
John, Morgan and Miley,
Gary and I are so sorry that Diane’s time on Earth is now over. She is a wonderful woman and I’m sure our Lord welcomed her into heaven. She will be watching over you and helping you through life so don’t believe in coincidence and you may feel her presence. You’re in our prayers. Love, Cindy and Gary
Lisa Fletcher says
Diane, you will be dearly missed. You are one awesome lady. I’m gonna miss hanging out at the bowling alley without you there. May you rest in peace. Love ya
Fletcher Family says
Diane,
You will be greatly missed by your bowling family. We love you and may you RIP.
Brian and Melissa Hawver says
Our heartfelt condolences to you. Please take comfort in knowing that she is no longer in pain and is in a better place now. We are sending thoughts and prayers at this time of need.
Chuck & Joan Lackey says
John, Morgan, & Miley,
We are so very sorry for your loss. May wonderful memories help comfort you at this difficult time. Our thoughts and prayers are with you.
Janae Abegglen Sasman says
John – Jay and I are so very sorry for your loss. I so enjoyed my time working with Diane at Things Remembered. She was a beautiful person inside and out. I have so many great memories of working during the Christmas season. She was one of a kind. May your memories help you during this very difficult time. Our thoughts and prayer are with you and your beautiful daughters. Fly High Diane!
Hadley family says
Our heart felt sympathy to the entire family.
Joe and Debbie Crenshaw says
John, Morgan and Miley,
We are so saddened to hear of Diane’s passing. She was sweet lady who will be greatly missed. We hope that special memories comfort you all at this very difficult time. You are in our thoughts.
Aunt Shirley Uncle Terry says
Barbara Crocco says
To the Brooks family, our condolences to your family, always treasure memories, your guardian angel is watching over you all, God Bless. Crocco Family
Mindy Schuh says
Morgan, I am so heartbroken and sorry to hear about your mother’s passing. As a smart young girl with a beautiful heart, you are a testament to how wonderful your mother was. She will live on through you and your sister. Sending you prayers and strength to help during this difficult time.