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DIANE JANET (QUIRIN) STRAND
Born: January 18, 1944
Died: December 28, 2025
Diane Janet (Quirin) Strand, recently of DeKalb, Illinois, beloved wife of Wesley Strand and loving mother of Heather Strand and Stacey Conover, passed away at her residence in Geneva, IL, on December 28, 2025, just shy of her 82nd birthday. She was smart, beautiful, and passionate — an artist, journalist, and advocate — as well as a loving sister, friend, wife, mother, aunt, grand and great-grandmother.
Diane was born on January 18, 1944, in La Grange, Illinois, to Leo and Lucy (White) Quirin. She grew up in La Grange, between the Burlington Northern Railroad for which her father served as Chief Engineer, and St. Francis Xavier Church, where her mother sang Ave Maria every Sunday. Diane was an artist from the earliest age, completing her first oil painting at the age of 9, and continuing to create and share art with others for the rest of her life. She attended St. Francis School, Nazareth Academy HS, and Lyons Township Junior College in La Grange, where she met several treasured lifelong friends.
In her early twenties, she met the love of her life, Wesley Strand, just before he went off to war for the U.S. Army. She wrote to him every day while he was stationed overseas. When he returned home, they married and moved to Elgin to build a family. With a toddler and infant in tow, Diane enrolled in Northern Illinois University in DeKalb, determined to finish her undergraduate degree. She graduated with honors with a BA degree in Sociology and Art, and later an MA degree in Journalism. Diane lived and worked in DeKalb for many years, remaining deeply connected to the academic and civic life of the community.
A dedicated journalist and communicator, she spent much of her career as a newspaper reporter, first in Elgin and then in DeKalb. Later, Diane became the founder and editor of the Northern Illinois University Public Information Office's Northern Today — a widely respected faculty and staff publication.
Diane was known for her vibrant and award-winning feature articles, which highlighted key members of the community and often advocated for local groups in need. A tireless champion of the underdog, she carried a deep empathy borne of her own experiences, having had to overcome several family, health and financial hardships over the course of her life. Her work appeared in the Elgin Courier-News, the DeKalb Chronicle, the Chicago Tribune, and elsewhere.
Beyond journalism, Diane was a gifted artist, expressing herself through drawing, painting, poetry, and music. As a member of the Kishwaukee Art League, her work was featured in galleries and publications across the DeKalb County area. She was also a passionate advocate for members of her community, volunteering with local homeless shelters, homes for battered women, children in foster care, refugees, and the League of Women Voters.
She and her husband Wesley shared a love of music, travel, and the outdoors, and a zest for life, instilling this love in their children. If there were no plans for a given Sunday, they would pick a place on the map, and the family would head out for a "breezy ride" and a day's adventure. They crisscrossed the United States on a shoestring budget visiting 45 states ? camping, exploring, painting and singing along the way. Throughout her life, Diane brought curiosity, creativity and passion to every personal and professional pursuit. Her feisty determination, infectious laughter, and vibrant spirit colored the lives of everyone she touched, and she will be remembered and missed by all of us who knew and loved her.
Diane was blessed to have a large extended family, and is survived by her husband, Wesley Strand; her daughters, Heather Strand (Charles Servaites) of Washington, DC, and Stacey (John) Conover of San Tan Valley, Arizona; seven beloved grandchildren, Jatiana Nero, Ashley Conover, Ebony Wilson-Conover, John Conover, Jr., Heather (Zach) Andrade, Isabel Servaites, and Celia Servaites; and nine beautiful great-grandchildren. She is also survived by eight kind and generous sisters and brothers in-law; and 19 wonderful nieces and nephews.
Diane was preceded in death by her parents, Lucy and Leo Quirin, her dear brother, John "Jack" Quirin, her devoted sister, Mary (Quirin) Thonn, and her brother and sister-in-law, Doug and Jan Strand. A burial service for close friends and family of Diane will be held on Friday, March 6th, at Clarendon Hills Cemetery in Darien, Illinois, followed by a celebration of life.
Our family thanks you for your support and asks that you share this memorial with anyone who was touched by Diane's life. Please visit her online tribute page at AndersonFuneral- HomeLtd.com for her full obituary, and to leave a message of condolence or share a favorite memory. Diane believed deeply that our world needs more kindness, compassion, and truth, so in lieu of flowers, the family requests donations be made to: Hope Haven Shelter in DeKalb, Illinois, or ProPublica, (https:// www.propublica.org/about), an independent, nonprofit newsroom. For information, visit www.AndersonFuneralHomeLtd.com or call 815-756-1022.
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FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: April 22, 2026 Media Contact Information: Aaron Franco, communications director (312) 520-9802 aaronfranco@isms.org
CHICAGO – Tripti C. Kataria, M.D., M.B.A., M.P.H., is the new president of the Illinois State Medical Society (ISMS) following its recent annual meeting. Dr. Kataria will become the first woman of color to hold this office. Dr. Kataria earned her medical degree at the University of Missouri-Kansas City, then completed an anesthesiology residency at Brigham & Women’s Hospital in Boston, Massachusetts followed by a fellowship in cardiothoracic anesthesiology at Mount Sinai Medical Center in New York. She also earned an M.P.H. in Health Policy and Management from Harvard University and an M.B.A. from the University of Michigan. As a part of Physician Anesthesia Consultants physician group, Dr. Kataria practices as an independent attending anesthesiologist at community teaching hospitals, free-standing surgical centers and private physician offices throughout the Chicagoland area. She has been an active member of ISMS for more than 15 years, most recently serving as president-elect. She has also served as speaker, vice speaker and chair of the Governmental Affairs Council. Dr. Kataria is actively involved in leadership roles within the American Medical Association (AMA), American Society of Anesthesiologists (ASA), and the Illinois Society of Anesthesiology (ISA), where she previously served as President from 2020-2021. Dr. Kataria’s term as president will run through April 2027.
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Founded in 1840, ISMS is a professional membership association representing Illinois physicians in all medical specialties, and their patients, statewide.
CHICAGO – The outstanding contributions and commitment of three Illinois physicians were recognized by the Illinois State Medical Society (ISMS) during its annual meeting this past weekend. The doctors are recipients of awards that celebrate the achievements of Illinois physicians in the fields of medicine, education, advocacy and volunteering. These three physicians were chosen for recognition among the many quality nominations received. Physician of the Year An addiction medicine physician whose advocacy and education work have had a profound impact on the community, Ruchi Fitzgerald, M.D., is the recipient of the 2026 ISMS Physician of the Year award. Dr. Fitzgerald is the service chief for PCC Community Wellness Center-MacNeal Hospital’s addiction medicine consult service and an associate professor in the Department of Family and Preventive Medicine at Rush Medical College. As a family physician and addiction medicine specialist, she has expanded the scope of services for pregnant women experiencing substance use disorder across diverse settings. She has spent her career focused on advancing equitable addiction treatment, reducing the stigma of addiction for new mothers and increasing access to evidence-based treatment for underserved communities, including those on Chicago’s West Side. Beyond the hospital setting, she has contributed clinical expertise to policy reforms regarding perinatal substance use disorder treatment in Illinois and served as a subject matter expert for the White House Office on National Drug Control Policy. Physician Leader of the Year A nationally recognized educator, researcher and specialist in pediatric infectious diseases, Archana Chatterjee, M.D., PhD, is the recipient of the 2026 ISMS Physician Leader of the Year award. As Dean of the Chicago Medical School and Senior Vice President for Medical Affairs at Rosalind Franklin University, she ushered the institution through the arrival of the COVID-19 pandemic and secured the school’s first eight-year Liaison Committee on Medical Education (LCME) accreditation in over two decades. Under her tenure, the school also saw increased student enrollment, expanded clinical partnerships across multiple states and the tripling of endowed scholarships for under-resourced students. Dr. Chatterjee is a nationally recognized authority in pediatric infectious diseases and vaccinology, serving on the FDA’s Vaccines and Related Biological Products Advisory Committee and multiple other advisory bodies. Throughout her 30-year career, she has coauthored over 200 peer-reviewed publications and led more than 120 clinical trials, contributing to the licensure of many life-saving vaccines used worldwide. Her selection also recognizes a trailblazing career: Dr. Chatterjee is the first woman and person of color to serve in her current role, and she is the first woman of South Asian descent to serve as dean of a LCME-accredited medical school. Physician Volunteer of the Year For his work as an orthopedic surgeon and for his commitment to expanding global access to specialty surgical care, Andre Ivy, M.D., is the recipient of the 2026 ISMS Volunteer Physician of the Year award. Dr. Ivy is an orthopedic surgeon at Duly Health and Care who specializes in hand and upper-extremity surgery. An international fellowship in the East African country of Tanzania led him to found a nonprofit called HandZania in 2019. Since then, Dr. Ivy has worked to bridge the gap in surgical care for a country that previously lacked a single specialized hand surgeon. Through the nonprofit, Dr. Ivy conducts recurring training missions and provides long-term mentorship to local surgeons in Tanzania. His exchange model also brings Tanzanian surgeons to the United States for three-month immersions, where they live with his family, train at his practice and travel around the country learning from other hand surgeons. A graduate of the University of Cincinnati College of Medicine, Dr. Ivy views international service as one way to make an impact on the world while embodying the highest professional ideals of service, education and humility.
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ISMS recognizes physicians in these award categories every year at its annual meeting for members. These awards were created to recognize and show appreciation for individual Illinois physicians for their commitment to serving their patients and community. If you know of an Illinois physician who should be nominated for a future award, please contact our Membership Division by email. Founded in 1840, ISMS is a professional membership association representing Illinois physicians in all medical specialties, and their patients, statewide.
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: April 15, 2026 Media Contact Information: Carrie Skogsberg (309) 821-4175 news@countryfinancial.com
As planting season begins and farmers head back into the fields, COUNTRY Financial is encouraging the agricultural community to prioritize safety and check on farm insurance coverages. Taking proactive steps now can help reduce accidents, prevent breakdowns and protect farm operations during one of the busiest times of the year. COUNTRY received more than 180 farm equipment collision claims between the months of March and June 2025. These claims include collisions on the road with other vehicles, as well as collisions with buildings or other equipment on the farm. “The planting window is short, and farmers can’t afford to lose time to setbacks from accidents, which unfortunately can happen when rushed or not prepared,” said Zack Hinthorn, agribusiness underwriter at COUNTRY. “Taking time now, before the rush begins, keeps farmers safe and operations running smoothly.” Hinthorn shares the following tips for a safe and successful planting season: Improve visibility on the road
Accidents involving farm equipment often occur at dawn or dusk during peak commuting hours, especially when motorists attempt to pass slow-moving vehicles or do not anticipate turns or stops. Use flashing lights, ensure reflective tape and Slow-Moving Vehicle emblems are clean and confirm all lights are functioning properly to help maximize visibility and reduce risk. Remember to use turn signals, as drivers often misinterpret a tractor moving to the right side of the road before making a left turn.
Drivers should plan ahead during the busy planting season, remembering that farmers will be on the road and allowing for extra time. Slow down, stay focused on the road and look for the lights on farm vehicles. Prepare equipment Equipment malfunctions are a common cause of farm accidents. Thoroughly inspect and maintain all farm equipment before hitting the fields. Regular maintenance such as checking worn parts, replacing filters and lubricating moving components can reduce unexpected breakdowns and improve overall safety. Take extra caution when handling chemicals Chemical safety is another critical focus during planting season. Review safe handling procedures for fertilizers, pesticides and other hazardous materials with all farm workers to help ensure everyone is aligned on proper protocols. Have Safety Data Sheets (SDS) on-hand in case of emergency and ensure the use of personal protective equipment, including gloves, goggles and masks. “Safety on the farm isn’t just about equipment—it’s about awareness, communication and looking out for one another,” Hinthorn said. “Refreshing safety practices each season helps prevent injuries and protects everyone involved.” Prevent theft Theft of tools, chemicals and other personal property is common during planting season and can occur when equipment is left unlocked in the field, and when farmers are in and out of sheds frequently and don’t close and lock the doors. Take time to ensure valuable items are secured. Check insurance coverage and review extra coverage options Farmers should check their farm insurance coverages to be sure they have the right endorsements and coverages. For example, with Extra Expense coverage, a farmer who has a covered loss on a piece of equipment may be able to receive additional payment to rent equipment and resume operations. Farmers who sell seed corn need to purchase additional coverage. Check farm inventory lists to be sure they are accurate and up-to-date, especially if you have sold or purchased new equipment. Meeting with an insurance agent to discuss equipment, buildings, livestock, crops and employees can help ensure proper protections are in place and that any recent changes to operations are addressed. Take care of your health Finally, farmers are encouraged to prioritize their health and wellbeing. Long hours and physical demands can take a toll, making it important to take breaks, eat healthy meals, get enough rest and understand how medications may affect alertness. Let family members or employees know where you’re working and keep a phone or walkie‑talkie nearby in case of emergency. Taking time to prepare for a safe planting season helps prevent accidents, reduce stress and protect against the unexpected. COUNTRY Financial has been protecting farms for more than 100 years and has more than 400 Farm Certified representatives ready to serve farmers’ crop, farm and liability insurance needs. For more information, visit countryfinancial.com/farm. Policies issued by COUNTRY Mutual Insurance Company®, Bloomington, IL, an equal opportunity provider.
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