Diane K. Reiss, 65 years old, passed away peacefully on May 3, 2024. Diane was born September 5, 1958, in Sheboygan, WI to Fredrick Sr. & Agnes Reiss.
Diane was born in a generation when Down syndrome disability care was not mainstreamed, and not always accepted. Diane defied this belief and showered a smile and hug to all she knew.
Diane could not be slowed down, she would wiggle out from backyard fences & sprint off only to be chased & returned home. Whenever she was alone in her room, you could hear her biggest crush “Jim Nabors” singing one of his many songs on her record player.
Diane was part of the RCS community, enjoying bit parts in many a play production. She was proud of her work contributions, and RCS art classes. Every summer Diane would look forward to attending Camp Evergreen, sitting at the campfire, eating s’mores, and singing songs as the sun went down with the rest of the clients.
Diane loved animals & would point to heaven if she knew the animal had passed. Even in her worst days a picture of a dog would make her smile.
Diane could always remember names, it was not uncommon for Diane to approach someone she met using not only their name but also their children’s name. Diane then always followed with the question, “How are you?”.
Diane maintained a great sense of humor throughout her life, on occasion she would use her knitting yarn to tie her doors closed or roll up a throw rug under her door so caregivers couldn’t get in, laughing all the while. Her spunk and zest for life was contagious. She could make everyone laugh with a joke, or share her pride singing the national anthem, standing with a salute, always encouraging others to join her. Given any opportunity to watch or listen to “Frozen” she would break out into a dance, persuading others to join in with her.
In later years Diane lived with the support of Homes for Independent living staff. Each caregiver she considered her family.
The family wishes to extend a heartfelt thanks to everyone who has shared a smile with her, with special thanks to Community Care, Paragon, and Homes for Independent Living, especially, Mary F., Emily, Der, and the rest of the staff at Stone Creek. Deep appreciation to Aurora Hospital staff & Sharon Richardson Hospice.
She is survived by her two brothers, Frederick (Linda) Reiss and Richard (Pam) Reiss, both of Sheboygan. She is also survived by many nieces and nephews, Erik Reiss, David Reiss, Ted Reiss, Sheila Reddy, Kari Meyer, and Jon Reiss, along with their children.
She was preceded in death by her parents, Fredrick Sr. and Agnes Reiss.
Private family services will take place at a later date.
A memorial fund has been established in her name with proceeds to Camp Evergreen and the Humane Society.
The Olson Funeral Home & Cremation Service has been entrusted with Diane’s arrangements.
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