Diane J. Cwikla, Age 64, passed away on July 18, 2026.

Diane Jean Cwikla, age 64, of Chicago, Illinois, passed away on July 18, 2026, in the city where she was born on July 14, 1962, after a courageous battle with leukemia. She was a beloved daughter, sister, aunt, friend, dog mom, and colleague whose life was marked by kindness, devotion, and a steady faith that guided her through every season of life.

Diane was born and raised in Chicago, where she developed the strong values, warm spirit, and deep sense of family that remained at the center of her life. She was the daughter of Halina and the late Mikolaj Cwikla and a sister to Jean Barkan. Her family was one of the greatest joys in her life, and she treasured every opportunity to be together, share stories, and celebrate the milestones of those she loved. She was especially proud of her nieces, Jessica Joyce-Cervantes, who is married to Nick Cervantes and is the mother of Everly, and Sara Joyce, who is the mother of Sofia. Diane loved her family dearly and found happiness in the simple, meaningful moments they shared.

Diane devoted 44 years of dedicated service to Great Lakes Plumbing and Heating, where she worked in Human Resources. She was known for her professionalism, loyalty, and dependable nature. Her long career reflected not only her strong work ethic, but also the respect and trust she earned from those who worked alongside her. Diane took pride in being a steady and caring presence, and her commitment to her work was a true reflection of her character.

Faith was an important part of Diane’s life. She was Catholic, and her faith was a source of comfort, strength, and hope. The values she lived by were evident in the way she treated others, always with generosity, love, and compassion. Those who knew Diane will remember her as a faith-filled woman whose heart was open to others and whose presence brought reassurance and warmth.

Diane had many interests that brought her joy throughout her life. She enjoyed spending time with friends and family, and she especially loved the beauty of tulips, the fun and creativity of craft shows, and the quiet satisfaction of paint by number and diamond art. She enjoyed baking, watching movies, traveling, and especially watching English movies. She had a fondness for pugs her babies Brandy and Butkis, Pepsi, Snoopy, and collecting snowmen, and she took great pride in her Polish heritage. She also enjoyed shopping and appreciated the simple pleasures that made everyday life special. She was also an award-winning bowler, and she enjoyed the camaraderie and accomplishment that came with the sport.

Though her passing leaves a deep void, her memory will continue to bring comfort, and her legacy of love and grace will live on through her family and friends.

In lieu of flowers, please donate to:

https://donate.shrinerschildrens.org/campaign/618584/donate

or 

https://secure.humaneworld.org/page/161022/donate/1

Visitation, Wednesday, July 22, 2026, 4:00PM to 8:00PM at Sheldon-Goglin-Kaminski Funeral Home, 5935 W. Belmont Avenue, Chicago, Illinois.

Funeral, Thursday, July 23, 2026, 9:30AM Prayers and Procession to begin from the funeral home to Saint Ferdinand Church, 3101 N. Mason Avenue, Chicago, Illinois for 10:00AM Mass.

Interment, Saint Adalbert Cemetery, Niles, Illinois.