Carol Diane “Dee Dee” Meeusen, a beloved mother, educator, and community member, died peacefully on Wednesday, June 25, 2025, at the age of 90.

“Born on January 17, 1935, Diane grew up in a close-knit farming family on the Drake Guernsey dairy farm in Fonda, New York,” her family wrote in a tribute. “Alongside her siblings, among many other chores, she spent her childhood helping to run the family ice-cream stand, an experience that would spark her lifelong love for community and service.

“A natural leader, Diane was deeply involved in 4-H as a youth, where she developed skills in leadership and collaboration that would serve her throughout her life. As a high school student at Fonda High School, she was an active cheerleader, band member, and choir participant.

“Diane went on to attend Green Mountain College, earning a degree in physical education. It was at Hope College, in Michigan, where she met her future husband, Gordon Meeusen. The two were married in September 1956, beginning a partnership that would span nearly seven decades.

“Diane and her immediate and extended family enjoyed many years of continuous camping among the lakes of the beautiful Adirondack State Park.

“As members of the Dutch Reformed Church of America, Diane and Gordon were active youth leaders and choir members. Diane shared her talents and devotion to her faith. Her commitment to teaching extended beyond the church as she was also a swimming instructor and a substitute and full-time teacher in public schools, inspiring generations of students.

“Diane later returned to her studies, earning her degree in special education from the Empire State College in New York. She spent many years working as a teacher for the Board of Cooperative Educational Services, where her dedication and care for her students made a lasting impact on countless families.

“Upon retiring, Diane enjoyed the company of friends and the joy of spending time with her daughter, Heidi, who was her greatest pride. Her warmth, kindness, spirit of fun and adventure, and an unwavering love for those around her will be remembered by all who knew her.

“May she rest in peace.”

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Carol Diane Meeusen is survived by her very best friend, Sally Dague (late Rodney); her brother William (Pam) Drake; her sisters, Gretchen (late Henry) Johnson and Judy (Bob) Carey; her children, Chuck, Fritz, and Heidi; her granddaughter, Anika; and many cousins, nieces, nephews, friends and loved ones who were touched by her spirit and kindness.

Her husband, Gordon Meeusen, died before her.

Memorial contributions may be made to the Wildwood Programs:

https://www.wildwoodprograms.org/ways-to-give/

If you would like to attend a Celebration of Life for Diane on Aug. 9, please send an email to: DeeDee90@use.startmail.com for more information.