Diane Elizabeth (Crow) Van Horn passed away peacefully on September 20, 2020 surrounded by her family. She was born in Summit, New Jersey and grew up in Wilmette, IL. She was the loving wife of Paige Van Horn and the devoted mother of Evan and Jackson Van Horn. Diane was the “favorite middle daughter” of Marilyn (Lund) and David Crow. She was the adored sister of Aimee Crow (Craig Garfield) and Alison (Crow) Bauman (Mark). Nieces and nephews Ezra and Lila Garfield, Julia and James Bauman, Hanalei and Makena Anderson loved their auntie greatly. She was the dear daughter-in-law of Barbara Hale and Joseph Van Horn and sister-in-law of Cassandra Ambler (Chris). A large extended family, including grandparents, cousins, aunts, and uncles were fortunate to be an integral part of Diane’s life. Diane was a beloved and devoted friend to many, adored for her humor and fun- loving spirit. In Wilmette, Diane attended Central School, Wilmette Junior High School and New Trier High School. After graduating with a degree in Art History from the University of Colorado Boulder, she had a successful career in technology software sales in San Francisco, where she met her husband, Paige. In recent years, she was a real estate agent with Coldwell Banker Devonshire in Denver. Diane’s greatest love was her boys, to whom she devoted most of her time and attention. She was active in their school community, at one time serving as PTA president. She loved to have adventures and travelled widely throughout her life. She was a voracious reader, could cook, dance, create and choose beautiful art, and was known for her exquisite taste. A private memorial service is planned for Friday, September 25 at 11am and will be available through Zoom. The link to join the zoom is:
Please send stories or memories to dianevanhorn.memories@gmail.com and we will compile for the family or leave a message in the guest book below. The family held a memorial at Diane’s home on Friday, September 25th, and a recording can be viewed at https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=hUKWnQtfw_o&feature=youtu.be.
Memorial gifts may be made in Diane’s memory to the National Brain Tumor Society, or a charity of your choice that makes children’s lives healthier or more equitable.
Such a beautiful person. May her memory be a blessing to all. Marilyn, just devastated for you all. Sending strength, love and support.
Bonnie
Diane was such a rare ray of light. She was so non-judge mental, caring, free spirited and such a soft place to fall. She genuinely loves others and had such a sparkle in her eye. She could not fully see how incredible she was and somehow she could zero right in on how incredible others are. This was all part of her innate humility and non focus on herself, a refreshing blend and so rare. She did not live in fear, her inner mindful generous nature picked others up and made it impossible to get enough of her. She inspires by simply being Di, with her gorgeous smile and loving beautiful and accepting eyes. You can see her soul through her bright blue eyes and the depth of who she is but she would never say it in words, that was just not her way. She never focused on that for long, it was always about the other person. I am so grateful to have known her and had her in my life, thanks to Sarah and Brad Freitag. I love her and will always keep her in my heart and her family. God bless.
Dear David & Marilyn,
My heart aches for your devastating loss. David spoke so often and passionately about Diane, I felt in some small way I knew her and to my deepest regret, I shall never have that opportunity.
Cherish your memories of her and know that her deeds ad spirit will live on in your hearts and all those who were fortunate enough to know her.
Heaven’s constellations has a bright new star tonight.
May her memory be for a blessing.
Marilyn and Family,
I am so sorry for your loss. Everyone at Sears School is thinking of you and your family at this difficult time. You are in my prayers!