Diane Gange Landers

Diane Gange Landers, a beloved teacher, animal advocate, and the warm heart at the center of her family, passed away on April 29, 2026, in Corvallis, Oregon. She was 78 years old. Born on July 24, 1947, in Cicero, Illinois, the daughter of Guy and Josephine Gange, Diane grew up shaped by the energy of Chicago and the rich traditions of her Sicilian heritage, two threads she wove proudly through everything she did. She had a deep passion for exploring her Italian roots and was fortunate to connect with family in Sicily, spending time with them on the island and walking the land where her family’s story began. She made it her joy to share that heritage with others, and no matter where a conversation began, Diane had a gift for finding the connection back to Italy or Chicago, sparking curiosity and leaving everyone eager to learn a little more about where they came from. Diane attended Morton East High School in Cicero before going on to earn her Bachelor’s degree from Northern Illinois University in 1969 and her Master’s degree from Indiana University in 1975. Education was not just her profession, it was her calling. She dedicated her life to teaching, working with students from Kindergarten through College over the course of her career. She had a rare ability to meet people exactly where they were, and her students, young and old, felt it, many carrying her lessons and her kindness with them long after they left her classroom. Nothing brought her greater joy than hearing of a former student’s success, knowing she had played some small part in the person they had become. Diane gave generously of herself to those less fortunate as well, and her love of animals led her to serve as President of Heartland Humane Society in Corvallis, a role that reflected her deepest values. What made Diane’s life all the more remarkable was that she lived it so fully despite overcoming a serious heart condition in childhood. She fought hard to be here, and she made every year count. Diane is survived by her husband of 54 years, Dixon Landers; her son Guy Landers; her daughter Liz Landers-Nussmeier and son-in-law Nick Nussmeier; and her grandson Gianni Nussmeier, who adored her and knew her by the most perfect name, Nonna. She will be sorely missed by her family, her friends, and every animal lucky enough to have crossed her path. Above all, Diane was a strong, loving, and fiercely protective mother whose loyalty to her family never wavered. She loved deeply, she gave freely, and she left everyone around her better for having known her. In lieu of flowers, the family welcomes donations in Diane’s memory to Heartland Humane Society in Corvallis, Oregon, an organization she loved and proudly served.

Diane Gange Landers

July 24, 1947 - April 29, 2026