Diane (Larkham) Jilek

RUTLAND - Diane M. (Larkham) Jilek passed away Friday, November 3rd at UMass Memorial Campus Hospital after a brief illness. She was 72 years old. Diane is survived by her only child, Charlene Conrad and her husband, Tom; her three grandchildren, Kayleigh, TJ and Joey. Diane was predeceased by her husband Mike Jilek and her previous husband Brian Hendrickx. She grew up in Worcester and graduated from Sacred Heart High School. She was the daughter of Bud and Marie Larkham. Diane was an amazing spirit that touched the lives of so many people she encountered during her years in Worcester, California and New Jersey. After meeting the love of her life Mike in Southern California, Diane and Mike moved back East to be closer to her family. For the past 15 years she spent almost all her free time with her 3 grandchildren Kayleigh, TJ and Joey. She rarely missed a school function, dance recital or any sporting events that her grand kids were involved in. Sharing the same residence for the past six years allowed her to be part of their lives every day. Diane started her career at Digital Equipment Corporation and never stopped working. Over the past 10 years she worked as a Human Resource Administrator for Home Staff Health Services. She was known for her strong work ethic and was an extremely loyal and dedicated employee wherever she worked. Her positive attitude and infectious laugh will be remembered by all her co-workers, many of whom became some of her closest friends. Diane and Mike were members of several organizations in California and New Jersey including Moose Lodge, Elks Lodge, and American Legion. They met each other and numerous friends over the years during their affiliation with these organizations. Diane remained close with her long-distance friends even after moving back and after Mike’s passing seven years ago. Over the past few years she enjoyed trips to the casino with friends, dining out and shopping. But her biggest passion in life was spending time with, and spoiling her grandchildren every minute she could from the time they were born. She was an inspiration to them every day and an inspiration to all of us who were lucky enough to be part of her life. A memorial celebration of Diane’s life will be held from 1p.m. until 5 p.m., Saturday, November 18th with a remembrance dedication at 2 p.m. at the Holden Hills Country Club 1800 Main St. Jefferson, MA. Miles Funeral Home, 1158 Main Street, Holden is assisting the family with arrangements. To share a memory or leave a condolence, please visit our "Guest Book" here on this page.