Diane Crook, nee Gustavson, passed away peacefully on Wednesday, December 17, 2025, surrounded by her family.
Diane is survived by her loving husband and soulmate of 59 years, Steve Crook; her children Steve (Julia) Crook, Julie (Jeff) Buresh, Kevin (Stacey) Crook, and Jeff (Gina) Crook; her beloved grandchildren Steve (Katie) Crook, Brianna (Tom) Meares, Mitch Crook, Will Kalvelage, Diana Kalvelage, Ethan Crook, Emry Crook, Blake Crook, and Caden Crook; great-grandchild Cohen Crook; step-grandchildren Alexa (Brian) Zirko, Aaron Buresh, and Zak Buresh; and step great-grandchild Naomi Zirko. She was also a loving cousin and aunt to many.
Diane was preceded in death by her parents, Herb and Ruth Gustavson.
Born on February 20, 1945, in Chicago, Illinois, Diane was the center of her parents’ universe and grew up surrounded by love. At age 15, on the third floor of Oak Lawn Community High School, Diane made a decision that would forever change the trajectory of her life. Standing by a locker, she asked a cute boy if he would tutor her in geometry. Steve agreed, and that moment began an incredible 65-year love story. They were married for 59 years and spent 65 amazing years together, serving as a true example of marriage, best friends and lovebirds until the very end.
As an only child, Diane always dreamed of having a big family and was born to be a mother. She was an amazing, caring, and supportive mom. As a nana, she was simply the best. When she was able, she never missed an event for her grandchildren. Her head tickles and back rubs were legendary and will forever be cherished memories.
Diane loved to sing, and her voice was beautiful. An alto who could harmonize with the best of them, she sang in her high school choir, was a longtime member of the choir at Oak Lawn Bible Church, and frequently sang duets and trios at church. She also sang constantly around the house, filling it with warmth and comfort.
A lifelong member of Oak Lawn Bible Church, Diane lived out her faith daily. She was a longtime Awana leader, a devoted servant, and a woman of deep and unwavering faith in God. Her love for the Lord shaped the way she loved her family, served others, and faced life’s challenges with grace and quiet strength. Her faith was not just something she believed; it was something she lived.
On Tuesday, December 30, 2025, the family will host a visitation from 10:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m., followed by a Celebration of Life at Oak Lawn Bible Church, 9435 S. 54th Avenue, Oak Lawn, Illinois.