Sylvia "Di" Diane Asaro

Sylvia Diane; who always preferred going by Diane was born on April 9, 1946 to John Harrison Thornton and Harriett May (Elmore) Thornton. She had previously married Wilbur Everett and then married Andrew Asaro June 1985 in Alaska. Di always stated it was the best 11 years being married to Andy. Whom she met when he needed a haircut and his beard trimmed in Eagle River, AK.

She was preceded in death by her Father John H. Thornton and Mother Harriett M. Thornton, her husband Andrew Asaro, her brother-in Law Richard (Jill) Luft, her great nephew Marshall S. Lawson, and many loving friends. Surviving is her beloved Brother John “Jack” Thornton (Marilyn) of Alaska, her Sister and best friend Janice Y. Luft of Pekin, IL., Scott (Carmen) Luft, Mark (Lelonie) Luft, Julie (Derek) Guidotti, Darcy (Chris) Lawson of Pekin, Jay Thornton, Tara (James /Colten) Thornton of Alaska, Sharin (Lisa) Risinger, and Candice England. Many other great nieces and nephews that she absolutely adored.

Di had resided in Pekin, IL most of her life and then moved to Alaska where she lived for over 18 years. She then returned to Pekin in 2001- her home town.

Di had a great passion for life and was a Devout Catholic. She was very involved with St. Andrews Parish in Eagle River, AK and St. Joseph Church in Pekin, IL. She was a Eucharistic Minister, a Franciscan, involved with Rosary and Prayer groups, Knights of Columbus, traveled to Medjugorje with her Husband, and Rome to see the Pope. She was a hairdresser in both States for over 40 years. Living in Alaska she decided to open her own shop “Heads Only” in Eagle River, AK with her best friend and partner Phyllis Gardino. As well her other “BFFs” followed and were very successful. Di was a phenomenal seamstress. She could knit, sew anything and made the most beautiful quilts; and was involved with the Quilt Guild, and taught others. She loved being with friends for a day of sewing. Just another creative talent that was given to her.

Never did Di pass up an adventure; always wanting to be on the go. She loved to hike, walk, swim (YWCA), travel, be with her family and friends. Her circles of friendship were broad and can’t be expressed enough. From youth forward their kinship, commitment and comradeship was endless. To mention everyone would call for a long list. But those she loved know who they are. Although she did not have children of her own; Scott, Mark, Julie, Darcy, Tara and Jay were her children. She was the second Mother to all of us and a Mother to many. She had a great love of animals and was an advocate of “TAPS”. Her love also extended to all men – especially Italian.

Di faced so much from a young age. However, always continued to battle anything presented. She was onery, stubborn, and a fighter when it came to others and herself. She passed away peacefully on Good Friday with her family by her side at Carle Health Methodist, Peoria IL. The gates of Heaven were ready for her.

In lieu of flowers, Memorial contributions may be made to St. Joseph Catholic Church, 303 S. 7th St. Pekin, Illinois. 61554 or to TAPS, 100 Taps Lane, Pekin, Illinois. 61554.