She was a sweet lady, remembered for her cheerful smiles, kind words and sense of humor.
Diana was born in Glenridge, N.J. She grew up in Montclair, N.J., and attended Montclair High School. She had a love for art and music. She played the cello and violin, and sang in numerous church choirs over the years.
After high school she was accepted to the prestigious Cooper Union, a school of art and engineering in New York City. While at Cooper Union, she was introduced to the handsome engineering student, Al. She often said, “Al was the best thing I got from Cooper Union!”
They married at the Unitarian Universalist in Cavendish, Vermont, and their love for each other lasted through 66 years of marriage. Diana and Al lived in New Jersey for about 22 years, then moved to Connecticut for a few years. When Al retired they moved to the family house in Cavendish, Vermont.
In addition to being a loving mother and homemaker, she was active in many community service activities. Over the years, she played many roles in the churches that she attended, from singing in the choir, and teaching Sunday School, to leading the youth group. She was a representative in the American Field Service — AFS (a foreign student exchange program), even housing a number of exchange students for varying lengths of time. One student from Thailand lived with the family for an entire school year. In addition to hosting exchange students, she and Al also hosted international speakers in Vermont from the Heiffer organization. Diana was Girl Scout leader, and a board member at the local library. She painted signs, painted theater sets, did calligraphy and wrote newspaper articles for a number of different organizations. Two and a half years ago, Al and Diana moved to Colorado to be near their daughter, Susan.
Diana is survived by her three children Susan Lange, Alfred Leonard and Diana Pelzer; and her nieces, nephews, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren. She will be greatly missed by friends, family and all who knew her.
A Celebration of Life will be held on Saturday, July 16th at 3 p.m. in the sanctuary of the First Congregational Church of Springfield, VT. In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made to your favorite charity.
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