Diana L. Darowish

Diana L. Darowish, age 55, of Utica, passed into the Hands of the Lord on Saturday, December 29, 2007 at the Faxton-St. Luke’s Healthcare Center with the support and comfort of her family. Born in Utica on November 12, 1952, Diana was the daughter of the late Robert J. Wentka and Frances (Voce) Kates. She also knew the love and guidance of her step-dad, Harry H. Kates. Although afflicted with cerebral palsy and confined to a wheelchair, Diana enjoyed life. She loved to socialize and if you said “Let’s go”, she was ready. She treasured her beanie babies and people would bring them from various places to complete her collection. She took pleasure in the activities at her day program including paper shredding. Some of her favorite things were outdoor activities, summertime, and good movies. Blessed with a quick wit, it never took much to make her laugh. She will be deeply missed by all who knew her, especially those with whom she shared a home. Each year, Di looked forward to participating in the Mohawk Valley Special Olympics. She was of the Catholic faith. Diana is survived by her sister, Christina K. Fellone of Utica; her nieces and nephews, Jason and Amanda Brough, Lori Bronson and partner Mandi Alsante, Frank and Sarah Brough; her great-nieces and great-nephews, Samantha, Cheyanne, and Christina; Dylan, Shaylynn, and Josalyn; and Frank, Jr.; her aunts and uncles, William Voce, John and Virginia Voce, Robert and Samantha Voce, Donald and Lana Voce, William True, Regina Jessmore, Maureen and John Prumo, Jane and Jack Townsend, and Joan Voce; her many cousins, with special mention of Barbara Espi; and her many friends, especially acknowledging Gail Massaro. The family extends special thanks to all the staff at the Kemble Street Developmental Services Organization Community Home, Dr. Roger Norton who genuinely cared for Di for many years, Drs. Gesualdo and Namassivaya, and the staff of the Faxton-St. Luke’s Intensive Care Unit who rendered such compassionate and wonderful care to Diana during her illness. The devotion of such extraordinary people like Aunt Curley, Howie, Liz, Gail, Cis, and Barb made the journey much more comforting through their love and support. Visitation will be held Wednesday from 2:00-4:00 at the Eannace Funeral Home, Inc., 932 South St., corner of Hammond Ave. Diana’s Celebration of Life will commence on Wednesday afternoon at 4:00 at the funeral home immediately upon conclusion of visitation with Sister Maureen Denn, CSJ officiating. Interment will take place in Mount Olivet Cemetery at the convenience of the family. “Good night, sweet princess. May flights of angels sing thee to thy rest. Until we see each other again.”

Diana L. Darowish

November 12, 1952 - December 29, 2007