Diana "Dinie" Josine Pasquinelli, nee Proctor, 63, passed away Jan. 15, 2025.
Born in 1961 in Chicago, Dinie lived a life that can only be characterized by her defining traits of being loving, compassionate and spiritual. Her journey through the years left an indelible mark on everyone she encountered.
Her storybook love with David Charles Pasquinelli, who grew up in Hinsdale, began in an unforgettable fashion during a chance meeting at the halfway house on the Flossmoor Country Club golf course when they were just 16 years old. That serendipitous encounter was just the beginning. When they met again seven years later at another chance encounter, when David's friends asked who that girl was, he exclaimed, "That's the girl I am going to marry!" Their lifelong adventure had begun.
Dinie and David's four wonderful children became the center of her universe. Her heart also expanded to embrace the next generation with endless affection and devotion as she welcomed her beloved grandchild, Reid Pasquinelli, with open arms and a heart full of love.
The Proctor and Pasquinelli families frequently came together to weave a colorful tapestry of experiences at their shared Florida beach house. Her commitment to staying active and healthy also led Dinie and David to open The Local Workout in Western Springs, an establishment that quickly became a haven for community wellness and fitness.
A passionate lover of life's myriad experiences, Dinie found joy in a plethora of activities. She was an avid skier, finding peace and exhilaration on the slopes of Aspen. The cherished sanctuary of the Pasquinelli family lake house was a testament to her love for water and nature's tranquil beauty, where memories were created and laughter echoed across the beach.
Dinie's spirit was evident from a young age, emerging as a formidable competitive swimmer who embraced every challenge with fearlessness and determination. Her bravery extended beyond sports as she took a bold leap and moved to Japan, representing the Hyatt Hotel Group when they sought American representation.
Her success in such a foreign environment was a testament to her adaptability and adventurous spirit.
Her illustrious career in hospitality with the Hyatt Hotel Chain was marked by a significant milestone when she became the face of a national advertising campaign, gracing the pages of countless magazines.
Dinie's life was a testament to the power of dreams and perseverance. Her courage to pursue opportunities ignited a similar passion in those who knew her, motivating them to explore their potential fearlessly.
Diana was preceded in death by her father, Edward Proctor.
She is survived by her husband, David; her mother, Kathleen; her children, David (Amy), Charles (Anna), Emma and Abigail (Sam); her grandson, Reid Edward; her siblings, Brian (Tina), Ted (Darcy), Laurie (Art) Marchesini, Abbie and John (Charissa); and many nieces, nephews and cousins.
A funeral Mass took place Jan. 21 at St. Francis Xavier Church in La Grange.
Interment is private.
In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to Misericordia, Wellness House, Culinary Care, Ronald McDonald House or a charity of your choice.
Sullivan Funeral Home in Hinsdale handled the arrangements.
