Dianne K. Dexter

Dianne K. Dexter, 79, of Kewanee, passed away peacefully surrounded by family on Tuesday, November 25, 2025, at OSF St. Francis Medical Center, Peoria. Dianne was born October 1, 1946, in Kewanee, the daughter of Harold “Bud” D. and Gladys L. (Gleason) VanDike. Dianne attended Kewanee High School. Dianne married Michael A. Dexter, Sr. on May 1, 1964, in Kewanee, IL; he preceded her in death on October 18, 2015.

Dianne is survived by one son, Michael A. (Kelly) Dexter, Jr., of Dunlap, IL.; three daughters, Michelle (Ryan) Ericson of Normal, IL., Lisa (Dustin) Ross of Kewanee, Lori Dexter, of Kewanee and 13 grandchildren Drew, Kelsi (Nic Arnone), Kaylee, and Ava Dexter; Owen, Evan, and Logan Ericson; Taylor, Alexis, Tauri, and Dane Ross; and Caden and Ryker Gillespie; two great grandchildren, Gemma and Luca Arnone; and numerous nieces and nephews. She was preceded in death by her parents; husband; and two brothers, Charles Nyert, Dennis Nyert.

Dianne was a cherished homemaker and family matriarch. Dianne's life was a testament to the power of unconditional and selfless love, as she dedicated herself wholeheartedly to her children and grandchildren. Her fierce loyalty to her family and friends was the cornerstone of her existence, and it was this unwavering commitment that will be remembered by all who had the privilege of knowing her.

If you asked her children what she enjoyed doing the most, their first answer would be taking care of people, including her husband, children, grandchildren, parents, other family members, friends, and her animals. Many friends of the family referred to Dianne as Ma Dexter.

Whether in person or online, she enjoyed watching and cheering for her grandchildren as they competed or performed in dance, swimming, baseball, basketball, and football. 
Dianne enjoyed music, especially Barry Manilow. She also enjoyed watching Lifetime movies, The Young and the Restless, The Bachelor, the Chicago Bears, and Dancing with the Stars. She liked scrolling Facebook, feeding birds and other animals, playing slot machines, exercising, and decorating, especially during the holidays.

She was a tireless worker and could often be found cleaning or doing yard work.  She wanted things to look nice, including herself, her home, and her children.  Like her husband Mike, she took great pride in her family.

The love she shared will continue to inspire and guide her family, as they carry forward the lessons of kindness, loyalty, and love that she embodied. Dianne's memory will forever be a beacon of light in the lives of those she touched, a reminder of the enduring power of a life well-lived.

Visitation will be 11:00 am -12:00 pm on Friday, December 12, 2025, at Golnick-Schueneman Funeral Home. A Memorial Service to follow at 12:00pm. Pastor Andrew Christman will officiate. Burial will be in Wethersfield Cemetery, a Celebration of Life at the Kewanee American Legion will immediately follow.   Online condolences may be left for Dianne’s family at www.golnickschuenemanfh.com.

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