Mrs. Diane M. (Morelle) vanderKraan

Mrs. Diane (Morelle) vanderKraan, age 62, passed away unexpectedly on Sunday, June 21, 2015 in the comfort of her home. Born in Utica on September 27, 1952, Diane was the daughter of Francis A. Morelle and the late Jane L. (Weaver) Morelle. Diane was raised and educated in Utica, a graduate of Utica Free Academy/Class of 1969. She continued her education at Utica College of Syracuse University earning a BS degree in English. On March 7, 2003 she married Adrian vanderKraan with whom she shared twelve wonderful years filled with fun and reciprocal love. Diane was an absolute and true diamond. She was thoughtful to the horizon and was a perfect partner; she made each day its very best. Immediately following her college graduation, Diane accepted a teaching position in the Utica City School District. She was an amazing and inspirational educator. She loved her students and they knew and loved her as Mrs. Czepiel. She was a shining light in the Utica City schools; she had a sure footed knowledge of her subject, an engaging style which kept her students involved, and a witty and talented approach to the subject of English. She turned prose into drama, poetry into song, and grammar into a murder mystery. After her retirement, she continued to produce humorous writing essays for her column in various newspapers and magazines. She authored two novels. Diane was a supporter of M.W.P.A.I. and Players Theater. She loved film, animation, music, theater, and the performing arts. Diane was a powerful advocate for her pupils and a precious friend to many. Diane was most happy traveling with the love of her life, Adrian. They journeyed to many places, including their most memorable trip to Australia. Diane was adored by her family and loved beyond measure. Her storytelling at family gatherings will be forever treasured. Her generosity and compassion truly defined her. It was never more evident than in the times she spent with her cherished niece and nephew, Jenna and Joe. Diane is survived by her loving, devoted husband, Adrian; her father, Fran Morelle and his fiancee Cheryl Ridley; and her sisters and brothers-in-law, Teresa F. and Charles Rogers of Utica, Nancy J. Morelle of New Hartford, and Jackie Morelle Bonomo and her husband Thomas Bonomo of Clinton. She will remain in the hearts of her nieces and nephews, Jenna, and Joseph Bonomo; and Darcy Foreman, Sibylla and Elvie vanderKraan; many loving aunts, uncles, and a host of cousins. She also leaves Adrian’s family in Australia: her mother-in-law, Carol vanderKraan; in-laws, Louise vanderKraan and Prue Foreman, Paul and Emma vanderKraan. She will be missed by her feline friends Jules, Milo, and Sydney who were always close to her heart. Those whose lives were touched by Diane are respectfully invited to attend her Memorial Gathering on Saturday afternoon from 2:00-4:00 at the Eannace Funeral Home, Inc., 932 South St., corner of Hammond Ave. In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation to the Help Animals Live Organization (HALO) cat shelter, 615 Albany St., Little Falls, NY 13365; envelopes will also be available at the funeral home.

Mrs. Diane M. (Morelle) vanderKraan

September 27, 1952 - June 21, 2015