Rock, Diane Marie

Diane Marie Rock

Diane Marie Rock, age 76, of Dodgeville, passed away peacefully on Thursday, December 7, 2023.

The former Diane Simone was born on August 2, 1947, in Milwaukee, WI.  She graduated from Janesville Craig High School and later St. Norbert College (her dad had high hopes that she would marry a Green Bay Packer – true story).  She went on to become a teacher's aide at Dodgeville Elementary School, which led to a full-time teaching position. She loved, loved, LOVED teaching and her students!

Mom married Robert Rock Jr. on February 22, 1969. They were blessed with three children: Jennifer, Robbie, and Jessica. 

Bill Lewis came into Mom’s life in March 1993.  Mom and Bill shared decades together and created countless memories.  They were the love of each others' lives.  Bill has a special place in our hearts as he assisted Mom through so much over the past few years.  Bill’s son, Dustin, has also been an enormous part of Mom’s life.  Together, they taught each other much about life.

Mom loved traditions and creating memories with her family.  She never expected anything elaborate from anyone as she treasured the simple things in life.  She always went above and beyond when it came to taking photos with her family and friends.  

Mom’s heart filled with happiness when surrounded by family, and a special bond existed with her grandchildren. The memories they share are so very special.  Grandie was so extremely proud of them.

Mom's passion for walking is legendary.  She was known to briskly walk around Dodgeville for decades.  If you didn't see her walking the sidewalks of the community, you might find her walking at school, Walmart, or the hospital.

Nothing seemed to slow her down until later in life.  She worked hard to provide for and support her family in any way she could.  She raised three children as a single mother and instilled in us kindness and compassion for others.

Diane is survived by her significant other, Bill Lewis, and her children: Jennifer (Tim Paradis), Robbie (Beth), Jessica (Mark Mook), and Dustin Lewis (Kaitlyn and her son, Michael).  Grandchildren: Abe, Ella, Eli, Liam, Bella, Lilly, and Ashlee (Addison, Logan and Nora).  Also, her fur-grandbabies, Jack and Lucy made her smile immensely.  

Mom was blessed in life by many wonderful people including countless, glorious teacher-friends who have been so supportive throughout her life. 

Mom was preceded in death by her parents, Eugene and Georgette Simone, and her forever best friend Eileen Evans (Patey).

Family and friends are invited to join us for A Celebration of Life for Diane on Sunday, December 17, 2023 from 11 am – 4 pm at the DODGER BOWL. Diane was a huge Packer fan. Please wear your Packer attire as the game will be televised during the Celebration.

In lieu of flowers, To honor Diane, please consider donating to the Dodgeville Area Scholarship Foundation, Inc., PO Box 111, Dodgeville, WI  53533.

Mom, thank you for always doing your best with us and for our brown eyes.  You will forever and always be with us.   We will forever and always love you.

A very special thank you for Beehive Memory Care in Mount Horeb.  Your compassion, care and love has been a gift not only to mom, but also to her family.

Gorgen-McGinley & Ayers 

Funeral Home

www.gorgenfh.com