Diane Mae Kutz, 60, of Cissna Park, Illinois, formerly of Alexandria, Virginia, passed away peacefully in her home, surrounded by her children and loved ones on March 2, 2024. Diane is preceded in death by her father, Charles Verkler. Diane is survived by her mother Ellen Mae (Wagner) Verkler, her three siblings Donna Peters, Darlene Drilling and Darrell Verkler, her three children Joseph Charles Kutz, Thomas Charles Kutz and Victoria Mae Kutz, and her grandchildren Charles Kutz and expected twins due this spring. Diane Kutz is also survived by her fiancé and companion, Bryan Hodel, who provided her joy, support, and immense love over
recent years.
Diane was born on April 25, 1963 to Charles and Ellen in Cissna Park, Illinois. Diane spoke fondly of her childhood in Cissna Park and her experiences on her grandparents’ farm. She graduated from the University of Illinois with her bachelors in Elementary Education and later with her masters in Special Education. Her life’s calling was teaching and serving others. She began her teaching career in the classrooms at Paxton and Cissna Park, and she continued her career after moving to Northern Virginia in 1991. She was immensely proud of her piano teaching business that she started in Virginia and continued to run virtually after moving back to Cissna Park. Diane had a passion for music and working with children and was a remarkable musician. She was dedicated to her piano students, and she continued giving lessons almost until the very end. She was an inspiration and mentor to many of her students, teaching them much more than just music and piano. She was also very proud of her involvement with the American Legion, playing TAPS for many military funerals. Diane was an extremely devoted mother to her three children; they were her life’s greatest treasure. She was always there to give unconditional support and love through every phase of their lives. She was also a loving grandmother (Didi); she enjoyed teaching Charles piano, singing songs, and passing on her love for Jesus.
Diane spread her vibrancy and enthusiasm for life to every situation. Her love radiated like the sun, drawing people in and captivating their hearts. Everyone who met her spoke highly of her kindness, hospitality, positive outlook, and knack for bringing joy to others. Diane truly could light up any room that she entered with her warm smile and friendly demeanor. She was a loyal and unwavering friend, always lifting up those around her. Diane was a devout Christian, dedicating much of her life to her work with the Lutheran Church. She was a woman of strong faith, giving her much strength and comfort in her sickness and battle against cancer. Diane was an extraordinary daughter, sister, mother, grandmother, partner, friend, and role model. She was the rock of her family. She was loved by many and will be missed dearly.
In lieu of flowers, donations can be made directly to Lutherans for Life (https://lutheransforlife.org/donate/) or to Trinity Lutheran Church, Cissna Park, IL.
March 8, 2024 Visitation – 4:00-8:00pm Knapp Funeral Home, 219 Blaine St, Cissna Park, IL 60924
March 9, 2024 Funeral Service – Visitation 1:00pm and Service at 2:00pm with burial to follow, Trinity Lutheran Church, 302 S 4th St, Cissna Park, IL 60924
If you are not able to attend, the family plans to hold a memorial service in Virginia at a later date.
