Diane L. Kelsey

December 5, 1950 – October 9, 2026

Diane L. Kelsey, beloved wife, mother, grandmother, sister, aunt, and dear friend of many, unexpectedly left us to join her Savior in heaven. Diane was born in Chicago to Gustav and Libuse (Bufka) Schieve. Her brother, Eric, followed three years later. She is survived by her husband of 50 years, Bruce, sons Bryan (Tracy) and David, and grandchildren Claire, Lauren, and Norah. She is also survived by sister-in-law Nancy Schieve, sister-in-law Liz Hasler (Chris), many nieces and nephews, and cherished friends.

First and foremost, Diane was devoted to her family and to those she embraced as part of her extended family. She showed up for everyone through every joy, sickness, and sorrow. She was intentional in keeping up with all her relationships, family and friends alike.

Diane met Bruce through a mutual friend. Bruce and Diane married on December 27, 1975, at LaGrange United Methodist Church, and settled in West Chicago, Illinois to raise their family. Diane spent her 20’s enjoying the freedom of youth and the social life she loved, but once she and Bruce decided to have children, she embraced motherhood. She volunteered for endless school activities, attended every game, performance, and show, and set up their home to feel inviting for every friend who walked through the door. She wanted her home to be the hangout house. Involvement in her family’s lives became her specialty.

Diane’s greatest pride and joy were her granddaughters, who lovingly called her “Gomee.” Gomee showed up for every sporting event, dance recital, and school performance, carrying a bouquet of flowers. Together they made many memories, including Friday night sleepovers at Gomee’s and Grandpa’s house with Jello always on the menu.

Diane attended Riverside-Brookfield High School, where she participated in poms and dance. She earned her undergraduate degree in English and a Master of Science in Education with a specialization in library media center from Purdue University (Go Boiler Makers!).

Diane’s professional life was rich and varied. After earning her degrees, she worked in a variety of school library settings, sharing her love of books with children. Throughout her life, Diane remained a voracious reader and proud library advocate, serving 10 years on the West Chicago Public Library District Board.

Among Diane’s closest friends and confidants are Darlene and Bob Hintz, Lynn and Jerry Day, Barb and Jeff Clark, Chris and Danny Sarros, and Linda and Jerry Swanson. They already miss her terribly.

During retirement, Diane and Bruce traveled the country and world, checking off many destinations from their list of interests, but they weren’t done. They had big plans for many more trips. Bruce and Diane were joined at the hip, still enjoying the adventure of life together after 50 years.

Diane is predeceased by her parents Gustav and Libuse Schieve, parents-in-law Reverend Ridell and Margaret Kelsey, brother Eric Schieve, brother-in-law Wayne Kelsey and sister-in-law Lois Zemke.

A celebration of life will be held at a later date. When the time comes, Diane’s family invites you to wear turquoise, her favorite color.

In lieu of flowers, please consider donating in Diane’s honor to your local military service organization or to your local public library foundation.