Diane Lillian (Shem) Fitz

It is with a heavy heart that we announce the passing of Diane (Shem) Fitz, beloved wife, mother, grandmother, sister, and friend, who passed away on Tuesday January 14, 2025. Diane leaves behind a legacy of love, kindness, and dedication to her family, her community, and those who were fortunate enough to know her.

Diane was the cherished wife of Bart Fitz for 46 years. A devoted mother to two sons, Casey (Amy) and Brett. An incredibly proud grandmother to six grandsons Barry, Nolen, Aiden, Breckin, Miles, and Lias, who were the light of her life. Her family was her greatest joy and she will be deeply missed by all who loved her.

Born to Ray and Dorothy Shem in Chicago, Illinois Diane was preceded in death by her parents and two of her siblings, Ray (Jackie) and Carolyn (Tim), and  is survived by her loving siblings, Linda (Geoff), Barb (Charlie), Loretta and Bill (Betty), along with numerous other family members and friends. Diane was a constant source of strength and guidance to those closest to her.

Throughout her life, Diane  was passionate about helping others. She graduated from Badger High School in Lake Geneva and went on to earn her Bachelor's Degree in Elementary Education from St. Norbert University and her Master’s Degree from DePaul. Eventually, working towards her  Administrative License from the University of Wisconsin-Madison. Diane worked as a dedicated guidance counselor at Richmond-Burton Community High School as well as Traver School. Diane mentored countless lives with her care and wisdom. In her “retired” years, she served as a substitute teacher in the Madison Metropolitan School District, always eager to support students in any way she could.

Her love for family extended beyond her own, as she opened her heart and home to foster many dogs, including some that became permanent members of her family, like Rella. Diane’s compassion for animals mirrored her love for people, and she cherished the bonds she formed with both.

Diane was an avid sports fan, always cheering for the Green Bay Packers and the Milwaukee Brewers. She also loved cheering on her sons and grandsons, whether they were playing soccer, swimming, or baseball. Watching them grow and succeed in their sports was a source of immense pride.

Diane had a special connection to Lake Geneva, where she spent countless hours enjoying the peaceful beauty of the water. Throughout her life she spent many years working for the Water Safety Patrol, strengthening her bond with the area she held so dear.

Traveling the world was another of her great passions, as she cherished experiencing new cultures and creating memories. Her dedication with the People to People program, helped numerous students experience parts of the world they had only dreamed of.

Diane was always active, whether it was downhill skiing at Majestic, serving on the Lake Geneva Women’s Association or volunteering at Agape house. She also had impeccable music taste and loved to attend concerts.

Diane’s life was a testament to the power of love, care, and generosity. She will be immensely missed by her family, friends, and all who had the privilege of knowing her. Her legacy of kindness and dedication to others will continue to inspire all who were touched by her warmth and compassion.

Diane will be dearly missed, but her spirit will live on in the hearts of all who knew her.

A gathering of friends and family will be held in the main chapel of Derrick Funeral Home on Sunday January 26th, 2025 from 11-3pm with a funeral Service at 3pm.

In lieu of other expressions of sympathy the family has asked that you make a donation in Diane's name to either: Geneva Lakes Water Safety Patrol or the Agape House .  Links have been provided below.

To post an online condolence please click the "Share a Memory" box on the left side of your screen.

Derrick Funeral Home of Lake Geneva is honored to be assisting the Fitz family.

Geneva Lake Water Safety patrol
451 Outing Street, P.O. Box 548 Williams Bay, WI 53191, AL
Tel: 1-262-245-6577
Web: http://watersafetypatrol.org/donate

Agape House
215 S. Main Street, Walworth WI 53184
Tel: 1-262-275-6466
Web: http://agapehouseheals.org/