Diane (Berns) Guertin

Diane Guertin, 77, of Elkhart, died Thursday, May 4, 2017 in Elkhart, IN, with her daughters by her side. She struggled since 2012 after receiving a contaminated steroid injection, contracting fungal meningitis. Diane fought with courage and grace.

Diane was born in Kankakee, IL to Joseph and Evelyn Berns. In 1962, she married John Guertin (preceding her in death), the love of her life. They were married for 51 years.

Diane attended St. Mary’s College and graduated with a degree in nursing. She enjoyed a 44-year career as a registered nurse, 35 of which were at Elkhart General Hospital.

Diane was a genuinely giving and compassionate individual who continued to reach out to others her entire life. She was involved in Community Outreach where she taught smoking cessation and provided wellness screenings. She was a member of Lions and a Hospice volunteer. Diane was a student mentor and volunteered for after school programs, providing snacks and organized activities. She was an active member of Al-Anon.

Diane was a member of St. Vincent DePaul Catholic Church where she served as a school board member and was a member of the Altar and Rosary Society.

Diane was a loving wife, mother, grandmother, sister, and loyal friend. She enjoyed spending time with family and friends. She was an avid reader and writer and loved to cook.
Diane easily conversed with others and never met a stranger. She was supportive, encouraging, and treated others with kindness. She led an exemplary life and will be dearly missed.

Surviving are her daughters Anne Weaver (Brian), Elkhart, and Michele Smith (Pat), Indianapolis; grandchildren Lauren Putman (Stevie), Hannah Weaver, and Allison, Aaron, and Drew Smith; and a sister, JoeAnn Van Gronigen, Destin, FL.

Preceding her in death were her parents, twin sister Dawn Jarvis, and spouse John Guertin.

Friends may call from 4 pm until 8 pm, Thursday, May 11, 2017 at Hartzler-Gutermuth-Inman Funeral Home. A memorial mass will be held at 11 am, Friday, May 12, 2017 at St. Vincent DePaul Catholic Church with Father Matthew Coonan officiating.

Memorial contributions may be made to Harbor Light Hospice.
 

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