Diane Susan Kaergard

Born Sept. 21, 1950, to Louis and Mariann (Shivak) Hummrich in Elyria, Ohio, she was the first of six siblings. The family moved first to Indiana, then to Illinois during her childhood, finally settling in Glendale Heights. It was there that in junior high she became a classmate of her future husband, Kenneth Kaergard, who she married on Sept. 4, 1971.

He survives, along with their two children, Christopher (Michele) and Grant, both now of East Peoria. She is also survived by her brother, Larry; her sisters, Denise Tunaitis (Michael Krambeer), Debbie (Steve) Binkley, and Donna (Dave) Donati; and several nieces and nephews.

She was preceded in death by her parents and by her youngest brother, Louis Jr.

Diane graduated early from University of Illinois Chicago Circle (now U of I Chicago) and embarked on a career as a history and social studies teacher at Evergreen Park High School.

Though she left the profession when her children were born, her love of history was something both she and Ken passed along to their sons. Her later work included a lengthy stint in banking, including at Valley Community Bank and through multiple roles at Chase facilities.

Diane enjoyed gardening, both vegetables and flowers, and had an enviable wildflower garden at her former home in rural St. Charles. She was always content when she had a mystery novel in hand, or when working on a craft project. Countless seasonal decorations, ranging from handcrafted, hand-painted Santas to framed cross-stitch works will forever remind us of her.

In her final years, Diane experienced difficulties from a series of strokes and other health issues, and recently struggled with Alzheimer's.

The family extends their gratitude for the kindness and professionalism of the staff at The Loft of East Peoria as they helped care for her over the past 14 months and made room for Ken during his three visits every day to spend time with her.

In lieu of flowers, the family asks that donations in her memory be made to the Peoria Park District's Luthy Botanical Garden, or to Alzheimer's Association Illinois Chapter.

Cremation has been accorded; there will be no services. Arrangements have been entrusted to Preston-Hanley Funeral Homes & Crematory in Pekin.

To express condolences online, visit www.Preston-Hanley.com