Obituary of Diane Carol Cornell

Diane passed away Monday, February 24th, suddenly and at peace. She touched an immense number of lives, of all ages with her gentle, giving nature, and wisdom. Diane was born in San Francisco and raised in Redwood City. She graduated from Carlmont High School and got her teaching credential from San Jose State University in 1961. She taught 32 distinguished years, then retired in Santa Cruz, where she helped start a nonprofit science education and foundation with her partner Irvin Lindsey. She is survived by Irvin Lindsey, her partner of 23 years, and her two sons and their families. Her oldest son, Craig Cornell, lives in Italy with his wife Brunella Biondini and their two children, Elisa and Sam. Her younger son, Brett Cornell lives with his wife Bambi and son Aiden in San Jose. Diane is also survived by her loving sister-in-law, Marry Saarinen and her son David Saarinen, her cousin Debby Mackay, and her former husband Jim Cornell. Diane's loving spirit will be missed by all those who knew her. Diane was a beloved member of the Santa Cruz community and could frequently be found leading programs and activities at Inner Light Ministries, for the Crones Cousel, leading local and international trips for the Sierra Club, and helping numerous other people, fellowships, charities, and community organizations. Instead of flowers, contributions may be made in her name, to her nonprofit science school: Outdoor Science Exploration - 150 Lions Field Drive, Santa Cruz, CA. 95065. A memorial service for Diane will be on Tuesday, March 4 at 11:00 a.m. with a reception to follow at the Santa Cruz Memorial Oakwood Chapel, 3301 Paul Sweet Road, Santa Cruz, CA 95065. Phone: (831) 475-2464.