Diane Vance

Diane Vance, 74, of East Peoria, IL passed away at 5:30 am on Thursday, August 9, 2018 at her residence.  She was born on August 17, 1943 in Peoria, IL to Lester and Emma (Klehm) Bargmann.  She married Russel Vance on June 30, 2007 at RiversEdge United Methodist Church in Spring Bay, IL.

Surviving are her husband Russel of East Peoria; brother Dale (Judy) Bargmann of Saxeville, WI; half-sister Shirley Musgrave of Overland Park, KS; two nephews Donald (Jima) Bargmann Jr. and Dennis (Sharon) Bargmann; six nieces Kelli (Dale) Miller, Lisa (Stuart) Ogden, Sue (Rick) Fristoe, Joni (Larry) Sallaz, Julie (Michael) Norman, and Jami (Joseph) Wescott; and step-daughters Heather (John) Rebholz and Hillary (Tarek) Vance.  She was preceded in death by her parents and older brother Donald Bargmann, Sr.

Diane graduated from Methodist School of Nursing in 1964 and worked in the ER, Ambulatory Surgery, and Orthopedics for 17 years, followed by 28 years with Midwest Orthopedic.  She remained an active nurse for 8 years following her retirement.

She was talented at sewing and quilting and loved flowers, especially wildflowers, and enjoyed caring for her various gardens.  A skilled canner of pickles, pickled beets, and other fruits and vegetables, Diane’s pickles, beets, and green beans were always enjoyed and devoured by family and friends.  She was a fan of the Chicago Cubs and a faithful follower of Bradley basketball.  Diane loved music of all types, was a choir member at church, sang in Hearts of Illinois Chorus and a member of their chorus at Sweet Adelines International Competition in 1990 at Salt Lake City where they placed fifth.  She was also a member of a barbershop quartet for many years.  Diane became the ultimate “Mother Hen” to her beloved flock of Barred Rock, Welsummer, and Speckled Sussex chickens.  Her enthusiasm, love of the outdoors, infectious smile, and joy of life were welcomed and cherished by all who knew her.  She was the embodiment of graciousness and compassion, and opened her life and heart to all her extended family and friends.  The world was better, because she was in it.

Cremation Rites have been accorded.  A Memorial Service will be held at 7:00 pm on Thursday, August 16, 2018 at RiversEdge United Methodist Church with Pastor Judy Doyle officiating.  Visitation will be held from 5:00 pm until 7:00 pm prior to her service on Thursday at the church.  In lieu of flowers memorials may be given to RiversEdge United Methodist Church, 500 North Chicago Street, East Peoria, IL 61611 or Illinois Cancer Center, 8940 North Wood Sage Road, Peoria, IL 61615.  Online condolences at www.masonfuneralhomes.com.

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