Diane Soldwedel
May 28, 1933-May 31, 2016

Diane was a beautiful force of nature possessing kindness, a dry sense of humor, and an unwavering belief in the goodness of mankind. These traits made her an outstanding educator, firmly entrenched in her love of family, pride of heritage, and zest for life that kept her dignified and artful in a long struggle with a debilitating disease. Her passing has left a void in our world that can never be filled, but puppies and horses, mountains and streams, and uplifting words of support and encouragement always will remind us of the extraordinary person she was.

She retired from Arcadia High School in 1993 after 34 years of teaching, most of which as Department Head in Physical Education. Diane was instrumental in advancing girls' athletics, including combining the boys and girls athletic departments. She was a proud graduate of Northwestern University and Illinois State University where she received her Bachelor's and Master's degrees.

Diane firmly believed in community participation, and she served on the San Marino Recreation Commission. She was also an initial member of the community group created in San Marino to develop and promote city-wide composting and recycling, two of her strongest passions.

She is survived by her beloved partner of 33 years, Rita Davis; her cherished sister Linda Mitchell and brother-in-law Tom; sister-in-law, college pledge mother, and friend Donna Soldwedel; four loving nephews and their wonderful wives and children; a loving niece and her husband; two adoring stepdaughters, their husbands, and one gift of joy, a granddaughter. -