Obituary of Diane Ryckman

Diane Florence Ryckman, 82, passed away Saturday, June 10, 2023, at Peppi’s House in Tucson, Arizona. She was born in Freeport, Illinois on April 21, 1941 to E.A “Pete” Ryckman and Dorothy Schmidt Ryckman. She resided in Freeport for the first twenty-two years of her life. After that she left for Arizona and stayed in Tucson for the rest of her life.

Diane graduated from Freeport High School in 1959. She continued her nursing education at Freeport Memorial Hospital and graduated in 1962. After moving to Tucson, she earned Bachelor of Science degree from the University of Arizona and she remained a proud Wildcat until the day she died.

In Tucson, Diane spent most of her nursing career as a pediatric nurse at Tucson Medical Center (TMC). Her career at TMC was interrupted for about four years while she worked on a pediatric respiratory research project at the University of Arizona. When the project ended, she returned to TMC and resumed working in the pediatric department. It was at TMC, Diane made many good friends who were like family to her. After her retirement from TMC, she worked as a volunteer at the hospital and was active in the TMC Alumni Association, Her heart was at TMC and she was always proud to be a nurse there.

Until illness curtailed her activities, Diane liked to camp, travel, spend time with friends and family, and occasionally pull the handle on a one armed bandit. She loved dogs and horses. Both were part of her life from an early age until her death. She had too many dogs to count throughout her life.

Diane was generous to a fault to family, friends, and even strangers. If she knew of someone in need, she never hesitated to help. Her many acts of kindness spanned her entire life.

Diane is survived by her brother Jere (Louise), sister-in-law Joan, nephews Kurt, Kory (Amy), Scott (Lynn) Kris, nieces Kristina Kathan (Jason), Rachel Ryckman (Alex Obrecht) and great nephews and nieces, friend Priscilla Lerma and her last of many beloved dogs, Checkers.

Her parents, her brother David and friend Mary West preceded her in death.

In lieu of flowers please consider donations to the Humane Society of Southern Arizona 635 W. Roger Rd. Tucson 85705, the Community Food Bank 3003 S. Country Club Rd.Tucson 85713.

SERVICE

2:00 pm - 3:00 pm

Friday, June 16, 2023

Bring’s Broadway Chapel

6910 Broadway Boulevard

Tucson, AZ

RECEPTION (following service)

Embassy Suites Tucson East

Mission Ballroom

6555 Speedway Boulevard

Tucson, AZ

FINAL RESTING PLACE (future date)

Elmwood Cemetery

Warren, IL