Diane Saenz-Rodriguez age 64, passed away on June 24, 2023, surrounded by her family. She is survived by her loving husband Marine Rodriguez whom she has been married to for 41 years, her three children: Marine Rodriguez (Tatee), Destiny (Son-in-law Mario) Tafoya, Leena Rodriguez (Bird), her two grandchildren Mia Tafoya, and Emma Tafoya, along with her two siblings, Roland (Christine) Saenz, and Jeannette (Frank) Zuniga, four nieces, and one nephew. She was born in San Antonio, Texas and moved to Chicago when she was seven years old in 1965. She grew up on 17th and Racine and graduated from St. Procopius Catholic School.

Diane worked for Catholic Charities for 45 years, 27 of those years working at El Centro De La Causa providing families and the community with many resources. She was instrumental in starting the after- school program at the center. Diane worked the last 18 years as a Child Care Program Director managing numerous Child Care Centers.

Diane was a deeply compassionate, strong, charitable woman. She was optimistic and always saw the best in every situation living her life to the fullest. She was very witty and humorous and often told jokes and family stories. Diane loved her children and grandchildren unconditionally; she will be truly missed.

Diane joins her Mother Oralia G. Saenz, Sister Margot Saenz, Brother Jose Saenz, and Father Jose E, Saenz in heaven. Although we are deeply saddened to part with her, we are comforted to know that they are together again.

Visitation: Wednesday June 28, 2023, at Wolniak Funeral Home, 5700 S, Pulaski Road, Chicago, Illinois 60629 from 3:00 p.m. – 8:00 p.m.

Memorial Mass: Thursday June 29, 2023 at St. Procopius Catholic Church 1202 W. 18th St. (Corner of 18th Street & Allport Street) Chicago, IL, 60608 family and friends will gather at 9am till the start of the Celebration of Life Mass/Service at 11:00 a.m.

A Cherished Mother and Grandmother

A cherish Mother and Grandmother

You are and were… and will forever be

You loved us throughout a lifetime

And we'll love you throughout eternity

As children, you were Mom and our strength

The force upon which we relied

You helped is grow through life's Laughter and tears

And you always stood by our side

You were so strong and worked so hard

To take good care of us

Hours spent…such time we can't comprehend!

Proved your faithful devotion to us

And when we brought our own children home

Your commitment only grew

You helped them, played with them, and loved them

As only a Moma can do

And our children…they came to adore you!

For you spoiled them with love and affection

You treasured each one in such special ways

There are too many examples to mention

And though they were denied more days and years

With a Moma as wonderful as you

You're filled their hearts with sweet memories

That'll remain a while lifetime through

Dearest Mother and Moma, we love you!

We fine we cannot do enough

To express the depth of our gratitude

For your sacrifice and your Love

But trust you'll be remembered

In sweetest memories every day

For you have blessed our lives forever

Through your goodness, and love and strength!