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WADDELL, Dianne Elizabeth

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It is with broken hearts that we announce the passing of Dianne Elizabeth Waddell (nee Crawford) April 20, 1941 – July 21, 2024. Our loving wife, Mom, Nana and Great Nana, passed away peacefully at Bluewater Health on Sunday July 21, 2024. Best friend, sweetie, and solemate of Jack Waddell for the past 53 years. She is affectionately remembered by her children Kevin Gelinas (Lesley nee Fulcher), Leanne Gelinas (Rick Scott), and Lori Andrews (Jim). Proud Nana to Robin Gelinas (Jenn), Stephen Gelinas (Megan), Teri-Lynn Hand (Zack), Amanda Soetemans (Steve), Taylor Woods (Kristen Milne), Kaila Woods, Matthew Woods (Maddie Morrow), Adam Lamb (Amber), Brooke Lamb (Dustin Pinnance), and Alyssa Andrews. Loving Great Nana to Benjamin, Nicholas, Jack, Ryan, Holly, Clarke, Hunter, Aiva, Huxley, Shaylynn, Bennett, Wesyn, Zaedyn, and Azalea. Cherished sister to Joan (Roy) Lavin, John (Doris) Crawford, and sister-in-law to Lynda Crawford. Predeceased by her parents Howard and Bessie Crawford (nee Galbraith) and her brothers Doug Crawford, and Lloyd Schram. Dianne was born and raised on a dairy farm in Oro Station, Ontario. She started working with Bell Canada in Orillia and later transferred with them, which brought her to Sarnia. Dianne stayed home to raise her young children, often caring for additional children in the home. She began a career as a mobile phlebotomist at the age of 45 for MDS Laboratories out of Sarnia. Travelling to nursing homes and private homes she become known as “The Blood Lady”. Dianne was an avid bowler for many years, belonging to multiple leagues and bowling in tournaments as well. Her and Jack took up golf in their early 40's, eventually having a summer trailer at Bluewater Golf in Bayfield where they spent 23 enjoyable summers. Jack and Dianne's love was one that so many have commented on throughout the years. They even had their own “little ditty”. When you saw one, the other was likely close by. She was the yin to his yang, and he is the half that made her whole. Together, they travelled, taking multiple cruises yet also enjoying their backyard time together. Dianne took pride in their pond and perennial gardens where her and Jack would spend hours together (and quite a few happy hours too). Dianne spent her last 5 weeks in the palliative unit at Bluewater Health where her cute comments and sweet smile stole the hearts of many. The family would like to give special thanks to Dr. Kim and his incredible team for providing such wonderful care and comfort to Dianne and her family right up until her last breath. Special thanks also go to Mandy Smith and all the nurses at Bayshore as well as PSW's at VON with special mention to Allysha Toth who went above and beyond in caring for Dianne. Forever grateful to Richard and staff at Northgate Pharmacy. Cremation has taken place and there will be a private grave side service. A celebration of life will be held for Dianne on Tuesday, August 20, 2024 from 4:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. at the Point Edward Community Hall at 210 Monk St. with eulogy at 6:00 pm. Memorial donations in Dianne's honour can be made to the Bluewater Palliative Unit, St. Joseph's Hospice, or a charity of your choice as an expressions of sympathy (cheques only at the funeral home please). Arrangements entrusted to Smith Funeral Home, 1576 London Line, Sarnia.