Diane Dell

Diane Claire Repole Dell

Born in Trenton on February 4, 1940 to Margaret (nee “Palaschak”) and Angelo Repole, Diane began her education at the age of three at Villa Victoria Academy in West Trenton, New Jersey until her graduation in 1957. She was very active in school, involved in no fewer than 16 clubs and organizations–simultaneously being the Vice President, Class Treasurer, and Sergeant-at-arms all during her senior year.

Her love for Villa Victoria and her well-known vigor for life is even apparent in her 1957 yearbook:

“Di … velvet brown eyes … natural charm … appealing wit … green buick … ’Pay your dues, girls!’ … strong alto … always on the go … fourteen years at Villa … Sergeant-at-arms … ’Oh, no!’ … loyalty plus.”

She loved all of her “Villa Sisters” and remained connected with them throughout her life.

After graduating from high school, Diane began her career at NJ Manufacturers before moving on to positions at Notre Dame High School (secretary to the Vice Principal) and as Secretary in the Bursar’s Office while at Trenton State College (now called The College of New Jersey). For 16 years, Diane worked at Bristol Myers Squibb as an Administrative Assistant. She loved her job and the people she worked with, forming lasting friendships. Lunch breaks were often spent playing cards, specifically Pinochle, with her friends. Even after retiring, Diane stayed close with her colleagues from Bristol Myers Squibb, demonstrating her appreciation for the relationships she built during her career.

A quintessential mom, Diane cherished her children: Anthony (and his wife Shawn), Victoria (and her husband Mel), and Kristie. She was deeply involved in their childhood as a PTA mom and homeroom helper. She was so dedicated that, along with her mother, she organized a pasta-making party in the school auditorium so they could sell bags of dried pasta at the Christmas Bazaar. She enthusiastically attended all of their soccer, baseball and basketball games, swim meets, dance recitals and any other activity with which the children were involved.

Diane’s grandchildren, lovingly known as the “Chickadees,” held a special place in her heart. They include Rachel (and her fiance Asa), Andrew (and his wife Jessica), Olivia (and her husband Frankie), Julia (and her boyfriend Chris), Anna, Ethan and Graham. Her great-grandchildren, Lenora, Jackson, and Jamie all brought her immense joy and love. As with her children she attended as many events as she could. One of her favorite things to do with her grandchildren was to spend time with them at Disney World.

For 35 years, Diane’s constant companion and “main squeeze” was John Fanelli, affectionately known as “Johnny Boy.” Their love story began as many love stories do–unexpectedly! One of John’s long time friends and his wife asked John to join them for a birthday dinner–not revealing that it was a double date! It also turned out to be Diane’s favorite place to eat (Chick & Nello’s Homestead Inn on Kuser Road). Needless to say, they fell in love. They shared a love for travel and enjoyed trips to Atlantic City to try their luck at the slots. Diane was known for her long nights at the casinos, sometimes playing until 4AM while John slept in the chair next to her! John never left her side. Even on Diane’s toughest days, in her final years, you would find John holding her hand and reminding her of all of the joy and happiness of their life together.

Diane loved music, listening to Andrea Bocelli, Dean Martin, The Three Tenors, and Luciano Pavarotti and was often serenaded by John’s piano playing and occasional accordion playing.

Diane cherished her best friends Dee, Ed and Barbara. Wednesday nights became a celebrated ritual with weekly dinners with her three best friends. Diane and John loved hosting parties and finding time to spend with these lifelong friends.

In her later years, Diane was blessed with devoted caregivers who became an integral part of her life. Joanna, Paula, and Andrea cared for Diane with genuine compassion and companionship, ensuring her comfort and well-being. Their dedication and kindness made a profound impact on Diane and her family, and their support will always be remembered with deep gratitude.

Diane’s legacy will forever be defined by her zest for life, filled with laughter and warm embraces. Whether enjoying a meal or a moment, she would declare with enthusiasm, “This is the best I ever had!”

On July 11, 2024, at the age of 84, Diane, beloved mother, grandmother, great-grandmother, aunt, cousin, and friend, embarked on her next adventure, continuing her joyful spirit in Heaven. Her incredible and positive influence has left an indelible mark on all who knew her. Though she is no longer with us, we can imagine her looking down and smiling, saying, “You were the best I ever had!”

Calling hours are 3pm – 5pm on Sunday, July 21, at Orland’s Ewing Memorial Chapel, 1534 Pennington Road, Ewing, NJ. Interment was private.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests memorial contributions be made to: