Diane E. Rutkowski, devoted teacher, volunteer
Diane E. Rutkowski (Uniatowski), 66, passed away during sunrise Ash Wednesday, Feb. 22, 2023, in her home at the beach surrounded by her loving sons watching MASH.
Diane was preceded in death by her father, Theodore Uniatowski; her mother, Doris Barker; her closest and dearest friend, Christine Sosnowski; her former husband, Edward Rutkowski Jr.; and her brother, Joe. She is survived by her sons, Matthew (Annessa), Brian (Liz) and Michael; and her pride and joy grandchildren, Matthew Jr., Brian Jr., Oscar, Payton and Benjamin. Additional survivors include her brothers, Ted Uniatowski (Sandy), and Tony Uniatowski (Carole); her sisters, MaryLynn Moroney (Terry) and Denise Blevins; and her in-laws, Steve Rutkowski, Marianne D’Alessio (Franco) and Jeanne DiAmico (Lou); and her estranged son, Edward III. There are many nieces and nephews who will truly miss her love as well.
Diane graduated from St. Hedwig High School in 1974 and Wilmington University in 2017 with a bachelor’s degree in early childhood education. Prior to attending college, Diane’s life was dedicated to providing love and care for many children in the community. Most of these have remained part of the family and continue to benefit from the life lessons learned while in her care.
Throughout her life, Diane coached basketball and softball, volunteered numerous hours at the St. Hedwig Polish Festival, moderated the church youth group and aided and enriched the lives of individuals with exceptional needs.
Diane had the voice of an angel and shared her passion for music through theatre and choir. Unbeknownst to many, she was a talented guitarist.
Diane enjoyed many things but most notably her time at 479, gardening, fishing, and just being with friends and family.
The family invites everyone to a celebration of life for Diane from 2 to 5 p.m., Saturday, March 4, at AmVets Post 2, 32592 Long Neck Road, Millsboro.
In lieu of flowers, donations in Diane’s memory may be made to Special Olympics Delaware, sode.org.
