Diana B. Doedtman (89) of Effingham

Diana Doedtman, 89, of Effingham, Illinois, passed away on Wednesday, July 26, 2023 at HSHS St. Anthony’s Memorial Hospital in Effingham.

Diana was born on November 3, 1933, in Effingham County, IL, the daughter of Stanley and Agnes (Koester) Smith. She married Paul Doedtman on July 25, 1953 and he preceded her in death on April 22, 2023.

Diana grew up in Teutopolis, Illinois. In high school, she was a cheerleader and loved going to dances. It was at one of those dances where she met Paul.

Diana became a loving mother and raised 8 children. She not only raised her children, but also spent much of her time volunteering and helping her husband behind the scenes in their construction endeavors. The couple later moved to Effingham where she went on to work at St. Anthony’s Hospital as a receptionist.

Diana was known for her love of gardening. She would go on long trips and bring back flower trimmings to put in her garden. On these trips, Diana would also look for hidden gems as she had a love for collecting. She collected mostly jewelry and glassware, but she was a collector of all things.  Diana enjoyed golfing, baking and was a longtime member of the Women’s Republican Party. In her downtime, Diana could be found at home working on her embroidery projects or hand quilting her quilts. She also loved her ice cream treats and country drives with Paul, her husband.

Diana is survived by her children, Gary (Mary) Doedtman, Angie (Rich) Neu, Deb Doedtman, Vic Doedtman, Jessica (Tim) Moreton, Julie Doedtman, and Jake (Faith Griffin) Doedtman; 21 grandchildren; 28 great grandchildren; and 4 great-great grandchildren. She is also survived by her sister-in-law, Joan Smith and sister-in-law Marie Mader.

Diana is preceded in death by her husband, Paul Doedtman, her parents, her siblings, Ruth Williamson, Jim Smith, and Dan Smith, 3 children, John Doedtman, Toby Doedtman and infant Ben Doedtman; 2 daughters-in-law, Margaret Doedtman and Debra Doedtman.

Anyone who knew Diana knew she was a strong, independent woman. She was a hard worker and always kept herself busy volunteering throughout her life. She was proud of her family and was all around a good natured and caring person.

Funeral services will be held at 10:00 a.m. on Monday, July 31, 2023 at St. Mary Help of Christians Catholic Church in Green Creek with burial in St. Mary’s Cemetery.  Visitation will be held from 4:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. on Sunday, July 30, 2023 at Johnson Funeral Home in Effingham.

Memorial donations may be made to Effingham Child Development Center. Online condolences may be shared by clicking here.