Dianne M. McDermott

Dianne M. McDermott, 78, wrapped up a beautiful, laughter-filled life on Friday, April 11, 2025, with her family by her side in her cozy Vernon Hills home. Born December 30, 1946, Dianne brought joy, humor, and the occasional over-the-top holiday decoration to everyone lucky enough to know her.

Originally from Chicago, with a sunny detour through Florida, Dianne settled in Vernon Hills six years ago. She earned her Bachelor's degree from DePaul University, where she also joined Alpha Omega Sorority and made friendships so strong they outlasted hairstyles, fashion trends, and five decades of holiday cards.

Dianne had a career as a health and PE teacher?think less "whistles and gym class" and more "encourager-in-chief." She was also a devoted member of St. Joseph Church in Libertyville, rarely missing a chance to combine faith, family, and a good holiday drink.

A proud golf lover (with an impressive social calendar of leagues), she hit her personal peak in 2008 when she nailed a hole-in-one. And yes?it was commemorated with a plaque, and yes?it was showcased like a trophy in her home, where she may or may not have casually pointed it out to guests. Often.

Dianne had a soft spot for animals and a major soft spot for her dogs, who always knew they were living the good life. But her true superpower was her boundless love and generosity?especially toward her kids, grandkids, and parents. She had an almost magical ability to give, care, comfort, and still have time to sprinkle a little sparkle on everyone's day (often while wearing something shiny and sparkly).

Whether she was handing out surprise gifts from QVC (some practical, some... creative), cracking a self-deprecating joke, or channeling her Irish roots with Celtic accessories and a big smile, Dianne made sure life never got too serious. Her house was always full of warmth, laughter, and at Christmastime?enough d?cor to make Clark Griswold weep with envy.

She is survived by her three children, Brian McDermott, Sean McDermott, and Kelly (Todd) Hassenfelt; her seven adoring grandchildren, Caitlin, Ryan, Connor (Jewel), Emily, and Kayley McDermott, and Alex and Jake Hassenfelt; and her great-grandson, William McDermott. Her beloved brother Dennis Freeman, and her wonderful nieces and nephews?Tim & Kate Freeman, Mike (Mary) McDermott, Bob (Heidi) McDermott, and Jen (Chris) Froh?will miss her dearly.

And of course, Dianne held a special spot in her heart for her "cousins by the dozens," cherishing every chance to laugh and reminisce, especially during the family's famously festive Christmas parties.

She now reunites with her sweetheart and husband of nearly 50 years, William McDermott (who passed in 2019), along with her amazing parents, Tom and Stefanie Freeman.

A very special thank you to the extraordinary caregivers?Christina, Miranda, and Reyna?who became family and made Dianne's days brighter, funnier, and full of love. You were her dream team.

A visitation was held Monday, April 21, 2025, at Burnett-Dane Funeral Home in Libertyville. Funeral mass was Tuesday at St. Joseph Church in Libertyville. Memorial contributions would be appreciated to Alzheimer's Association, www.alz.org. Interment at All Saints Cemetery in Des Plaines. For info: 847-362-3009 or share a memory at www.burnettdane.com.