D. Lynn Shane Allegany, NY It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of Diane Lynn (Vossler) Shane, beloved wife of J. Michael, mother of Kathleen (John Wolfgang), Anne (Tim Bayne), Patrick (Sheila Doran), Peter (Nancy Bitetto), Kevin (Anna Lawton), and Daniel (Janete Bernardino), and beloved grandmother of Molly, Michael, Anna, Grace, Connor, Aidan, Claire, Reilly, Maggie, Brigid, Tommy, Norah, and Frances. Lynn died on September 25, 2024 after a courageous battle with cancer, surrounded by her loving family.
Born to Richard and Kathleen Vossler in 1946, Lynn was the second of nine siblings including Mary Lee Strakosh, Richard (Madelyn), Anne (Dan) Williams, Trina (Bill) Giardini, Patty (Jim) Long, Michael (deceased), Barbara (Kim) and Bernie (Linda). Her tight bond with her family members helped them overcome the sudden and tragic loss of their brother Michael in a car accident in 1969. Lynn’s parents taught her the value of hard work, education, unwavering faith, and service to others. She lived these values throughout her life. Graduating from St. Bonaventure University in 1968, Lynn began her career as a teacher.
Lynn and Michael were married at St. Bonaventure University on April 4, 1970. Together, they raised six children while also opening their home to several foster children. Lynn was an active member of St. Bonaventure Parish and worked tirelessly to support our local Catholic schools. She eventually returned to St. Bonaventure, earned a Master’s degree in counseling, and worked for many years for BOCES as a special education counselor in the Salamanca school district.
Throughout her life, Lynn always had room in her heart for a child in need. After her retirement, Lynn volunteered for Meals on Wheels, was a member of the Red Hats Society, and Allegany’s 60 Plus Club. Lynn was whip smart, had an acerbic wit and was a voracious reader her entire life. She was an avid New York Yankees fan and traveled to many games and spring training in Florida. She loved to embroider, and she created beautiful gifts for her family and friends. She was an extraordinary baker and will be remembered by many for her delicious treats. She was very sociable and had a wonderful group of friends who remained dear to her until her passing. One of her favorite pastimes was meeting her friends at the casino and spending the afternoon playing the slots. We are hopeful there is Keno in heaven and she’s hitting the jackpot. Lynn might never have won the lottery here on earth, but her children know we won the best lottery of all in having her for our mother.
As dedicated as she was to her community, it paled in comparison to the love she gave her children and grandchildren. Whether it was curling up by the fire with a chapter book and her six children vying for a coveted spot on her lap, baking cookies and hosting tea parties with her grandchildren complete with lemonade and fancy hats or playing board games and building fairy gardens in the yard, the memories she gave us will be cherished forever.
While we mourn her loss, we also celebrate her life and the unconditional love and support she provided us. In talking about her own mother, Lynn often recited the poem, “The Reading Mother,” by Strickland Gillilan: You may have tangible wealth untold; Caskets of jewels and coffers of gold. Richer than I you can never be– I had a Mother who read to me. Thank you, Mom. Our lives are unaccountably richer because of you. You will be deeply missed. A visitation will be held on Friday from 4-7 p.m. at the Casey, Halwig and Hartle Funeral Home, 3128 W. State Rd., Olean A funeral Mass will take place on Saturday (September 28, 2024) at noon at St. Bonaventure Church in Allegany. Burial will be in St. Bonaventure Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, please say a prayer for a Yankees World Series title. Donations can be made in Lynn’s name to Meals on Wheels of Cattaraugus County, 1 Leo Moss Dr., Olean, NY 14760.
