Guestbook

Condolences and Reflections for

Diane Whipple, 33
San Francisco, CA

LaCrosse Coach, St. Mary's College, Moraga, CA

January 26, 2001

"A new Angel in Heaven way too soon..."

I read Diane's story in a popular magazine. It tears at my heart to hear that such a vibrant life was taken so early. My sincere condolences to you, Sharon, and the family of Diane. It is so hard for me to comprehend that after so many proof-positive cases of pit-bull and presa canario attacks, they are still allowed in communities.
Cara D. <cara_dominguez@yahoo.com>
Huntington Beach, CA USA - Thursday, July 05, 2001 at 15:58:37 (PDT)

I had the honor to serve as the head student athletic trainer, when I was completing my degree at Penn State, for the women's lacrosse team in the spring of 1990. I had the opportunity to get to know Diane since she was on the team that spring. It has been such a shock to me ever since Diane died. My prayers are with Sharon Smith and Diane's family.
Mary L. McDade <m601628m@hotmail.com>
Edinboro, Pa USA - Tuesday, July 03, 2001 at 10:28:05 (PDT)

I really admire Dianne Whipple
Liv Fay
USA - Thursday, June 07, 2001 at 16:09:06 (PDT)

I never knew Diane Whipple as though I feel like I have. She seemed like an angel loving and full of life. My support goes out to sharon and dianes family. I think we all should relaize that life and time our precious and we should always live life to the fullest. I do, and its something that will never change in me. I wrote a poem for DIane, and though you may seem far my thoughts will always bring you closer to me. My thoughts are with you. LOve, Lisa
LIsa Birmingham <princesslisa26@hotmail.com>
SAn Francisco, ca USA - Tuesday, May 29, 2001 at 23:45:22 (PDT)

I grew up in Manhasset, Long Island, attended & played lacrosse at St. Marys' Boys High School in Manhasset (1977-1981) and had an opportunity to meet Diane when she played at Manhasset High School. She was a very nice person and invited me to watch her play during one of her high school games. I never really befriended Diane but knew of her through friends & neighbors thst played with her on her high school lacrosse team. 15 years later when I heard of the tragic occurrence of her death I immediatley remembered the name & face and recalled our one time meeting. I was saddened to hear of such a promising young talent lost long before her time. I wish her partner, family & friends my deepest sympathies as a former Manhasset resident & lacrosse player!
Joseph P. Mullaly <joseph.p.mullaly@citicorp.com>
NYC, NY USA - Saturday, March 31, 2001 at 10:52:19 (PST)

Diane's story has deeply saddened me. Her partner, family, and friends are in my prayers and I fully support Sharon in her quest for damages against the dog owners. No amount of money can ever make up for a loved one; however, hopefully enough attention will be brought to Diane's plight that it will be prevented from happening again. Though I never knew Diane, she will be deeply missed as a beautiful, loving woman who walked among us. God bless you Sharon and Diane's family as you mourn your loss. Love, Kim Morgan
Kim Morgan <fatkitty2000@aol.com>
Greenacres, FL USA - Friday, March 30, 2001 at 13:29:03 (PST)

I never knew Diane Whipple, but I was very touched by her life and profoundly saddened by her tragic death, this beautiful vibrant woman should still be here,she seemed like an extraordinary person .To Diane's friends ,family and to her partner Sharon,you are in my thoughts and prayers.Diane touched many lives while she was alive,even though I did'nt know her, I feel as if one of my friends died.
Lisa Del Fante <lisa41076@yahoo.com>
Pacifica, Ca USA - Thursday, March 29, 2001 at 19:24:47 (PST)

I did'nt know Diane Whipple but I was very touched by her life and deeply saddened by her death, this terrible tragedy never should have happened,this beautiful ,vibrant woman should still be here, to the friends family and to Diane's partner Sharon Smith God Bless you, you are in my thoughts and prayers.Diane will always be a beautiful angel in heaven.
Lisa Del Fante <lisa41076@yahoo.com>
Pacifica, Ca USA - Thursday, March 29, 2001 at 19:00:30 (PST)

I did'nt know Diane Whipple but I feel so angry and sad about what happened to her.This beautiful caring woman never should have died so young.To Diane's friends family and Sharon you are in my thoughts and prayers.I hope that there is justice for Diane, this terrible tragedy should never have happened.
Lisa Del Fante <lisa41076@yahoo.com>
Pacifica, Ca USA - Thursday, March 29, 2001 at 18:38:39 (PST)

I did'nt know Diane Whipple but I feel so angry and sad about what happened to her.This beautiful caring woman never should have died so young.To Diane's friends family and Sharon you are in my thoughts and prayers.I hope that there is justice for Diane, this terrible tradgedy should never have happened.
Lisa Del Fante <lisa41076@yahoo.com>
Pacifica, Ca USA - Thursday, March 29, 2001 at 18:35:01 (PST)

I am so saddened by what happened to Diane,I also wanted to say that I hope that the 2 attorneys who owned the vicious dogs who killed Diane will be punished for thier irresponsibility.This woman did not deserve to die!!!!!!!!!!!!!!1
Lisa Del Fante <lisa41076@yahoo.com>
Pacifica, Ca USA - Thursday, March 29, 2001 at 18:32:08 (PST)

I did'nt know Diane Whipple but I feel so angry and sad about what happened to her.This beautiful caring woman never should have died so young.To Diane's friends family and Sharon you are in my thoughts and prayers.I
Lisa Del Fante <lisa41076@yahoo.com>
Pacifica, Ca USA - Thursday, March 29, 2001 at 18:28:01 (PST)

TO Diane's Family and Friends, I went to grade school with Diane, and havent heard anything about her in 21 years. I see how many people she has touched in her life. Even after all the years, and I saw her picture, I knew it was her. She had grow to be so pretty and special to so many people. She will always be in my thoughts, and her family and friends in my prayers.
Jason Haskell <jphaskell@aol.com>
Maywood , NJ USA - Thursday, March 29, 2001 at 06:54:25 (PST)

To the family and friends of Diane Whipple. As I read in the paper and on the news that someone will have to pay for this horrible murder. I hope that the person or persons will be accountable for their actions. God Bless Mary Frogue
Mary Frogue <SICILLIANGAL@AOL.COM>
Riverside, Ca USA - Wednesday, March 28, 2001 at 19:30:23 (PST)

I would just like to express my condolences to Diane's family, friends and life partner. It's sad things like this happen.
Don <mk6741@hotmail.com>
Atlanta, GA USA - Wednesday, March 07, 2001 at 03:16:42 (PST)

I don't know where to start. I was scrolling down looking at all the people and ST. MARYS COLLEGE pop out i knew I had to write something then because that is where my sister goes to school. I will be praying for your family and students.
Katie <kneff007@hotmail.com>
westernport, md USA - Sunday, March 04, 2001 at 14:03:25 (PST)

I LOVE YOU COACH. You made Saint Mary's Lacrosse! You are going to be a part of me for the rest of my life. Yeah, your family, I'm family, she's family :) Love you lots, BRYAN!
Megan Bryan <megbry@hotmail.com>
Moraga, ca USA - Sunday, February 25, 2001 at 22:28:42 (PST)

For Alexis' family, friends, lacrosse sisters and life partner Sharon, we are heartbroken about her passing and praying for her soul to rest in peace. Alexis obviously had a smile and laugh for you all, and now you have a loving guardian angel looking over you. Sharon, you were a kind and supportive friend to me a few years ago whose words gave me the strength to end an abusive relationship with CHE and turn my life around, even though you very busy at Menlo Park. I am so grateful to you and please know that I am here to support you 110% and urging to you, "Be strong" as you did for me. May you feel your Southern Californian friends' encouragement, strength, love and prayers as we admire your search for justice and peace.
Leslie King <lesliek@qualcomm.com>
San Diego, CA USA - Monday, February 12, 2001 at 18:26:27 (PST)

I was so saddened to hear about the tragic loss of Diane's life due to irresponsible dog owners. I pray that they are brought to justice and that this doesn't happen to anyone else. May Diane's memory be a blessing. Sincerely, Tara
Tara Cazaubon <cazaubon@qualcomm.com>
San Diego, CA USA - Monday, February 12, 2001 at 16:22:46 (PST)

Please accept my deepest condolences. May her soul rest in peace and may her family and friends find the strenght to endure such a tragic loss. Sincerely.
Carlos Figueiredo <carlosf@qualcomm.com>
San Diego, CA USA - Monday, February 12, 2001 at 15:58:35 (PST)

I've read a quote about Diane Whipple that states she "had the spirit of a giant and the heart of child". These few words speak volumes of a very loved woman who has left this life so early and so completely unneccessarily. I know you are running with the light. You are so missed, Diane.
Jennifer
USA - Monday, February 12, 2001 at 15:55:09 (PST)

May God be with all of you at this time
Edie
State College, PA USA - Monday, February 12, 2001 at 08:54:50 (PST)

Diane shared her passion, energy, and life with those of us that she coached. But Diane was far more than just a coach, she was a friend, and an inspiration. I take the lessons that she taught me in lacrosse into my life everyday. The only regret I have is that I didn't have the time to get to know her better. Diane was very special to me and all of my teammates, we will make you proud Coach. Thanks to all who send their prayers and support.
Rosy Iaccino <rmiaccin@stmarys-ca.edu>
Moraga, CA USA - Sunday, February 11, 2001 at 12:21:36 (PST)

Sorry that this had to happen. Diane you seemed like such a good person. It seems so unnecessary. If dog owners would just take care of their responsibilities none of this would have had to happen.
Steve Moore <swimmoore@iname.com>
San Jose, CA USA - Saturday, February 10, 2001 at 13:59:03 (PST)

I had the honor of knowing Diane through the Penn State lacrosse program. (I actually think I coached her at the Penn State camp when she was in high school!) Although I graduated a few years before her, I thoroughly enjoyed following her career, watching her play, and hearing about her accomplishments after PSU. To her family and friends, my deepest sympathies. We have lost a great athlete, coach, and friend. I know for sure she will be one of the brightest stars in heaven.
Suzie Friedrich <slfried22@aol.com>
Baltimore, MD USA - Saturday, February 10, 2001 at 13:24:16 (PST)

I hope that the friends and family of Ms. Whipple realize that there are many, many people, in San Francisco and across the country, who have been affected by her death, and we will see to it that justice prevails. I don't know what words could possibly help, except to say that if people continue to live on in others' hearts, then surely Diane lives.
Best Wishes
San Francisco, CA USA - Saturday, February 10, 2001 at 11:40:41 (PST)

I did not know Diane Whipple, but can understand the anguish that her partner and family are feeling. My thoughts and prayers are with you all during these days and in the months ahead. This was a very tragic accident, and one that should have never happened if people with animals would just be more careful and responsible.
Carol
Santa Cruz, CA USA - Saturday, February 10, 2001 at 11:13:14 (PST)

To the friends and family of Diane, My friendship with Diane began when she interned at Innisbrook Resort in Florida. She always made me laugh with a funny comment or action. I am flooded with memories of some of our adventures. She was full of spirit that was so quickly spread to those around her. Diane I'll be digging up old pictures and remembering you with a smile! My sympathy goes out to Diane's life partner and her family and friends.
Sylvia (atkins)Gentges <Slynjax@aol.com>
Jacksonville, FL USA - Friday, February 09, 2001 at 22:15:36 (PST)

Diane was not only the best coach, but also a friend. Her happiness everyday has taught me to live my life to its fullest. She was happy in everything in her life before she left us and I believe she continues to be happy watching over us in another place. Diane, I will always remember you and your love for candy and aliens...you were the best. I believe that everything happens for a reason, this one I'm not to sure about, except that "God probably just needed a really good lacrosse coach." Diane you will be missed, but hopefully we can carry a little piece of you inside of us, forever.
martina mlinar <mlinar31@aol.com>
moraga, ca USA - Friday, February 09, 2001 at 16:46:18 (PST)

Diane believed that people come into our lives for a reason. She used her lifetime to make our lives better. She touched the lives of many in her life. In death, she continues to touch the lives of many more. I am truly sorry for all of you who never got to know her. To those of you lucky enough to know her, let her spirit live through you. Let her help you to run faster and longer, play harder and better, laugh more often, and above all; EAT MORE CANDY! Thank you Diane for making my world a better place.
Jennifer Krusing <jkrusing@aol.com>
San Francisco, CA USA - Friday, February 09, 2001 at 11:05:49 (PST)

I didn't know Diane, but her tragic death has touched me.My thoughts and prayers are with Diane's life partner, her family and her students. Her death was unecessary and I hope that justice will be done to those dog owners.
Linda Eyerly <eyerly18@cs.com>
Martinez, Ca. USA - Thursday, February 08, 2001 at 20:31:18 (PST)

Diane was the most incredible person that I have ever met. Her love for life, her players, friends, and Sharon should be seen as an inspiration to all of us who had a chance to know her. She was the best coach I have ever had. She was enthusiastic, dedicated, and most of all loved each and every one of her players. All that we achieve on the field is a direct result of everything she taught us. I will miss her as a coach, as a teammate, and as one of the best friends that I will ever have the chance to meet. If there is something from her that I can hope to take with me it is her ability to live each day to the fullest surrounded by people that I love. Coach, I will miss you and love you for the rest of my life. love Harms
amy harms <kakes22@aol.com>
moraga, ca USA - Thursday, February 08, 2001 at 17:56:10 (PST)

Diane was the best coach I ever had. She brought together a group of girls, most of which had never played before, and turned us into a competative division 1 team. Her energy, spirit, and love for the game will be missed. But her love of life will be carried on by all those whom she touched. I'll never forget the night we were hanging out after a heartbreaking loss to Cal. and she spent the night chewing up pretzels and trying to spit them on me. We will miss you coach! You'll always be in my heart and prayers. We'll do our best to play like you taught us.
Meghan Jones <JONES5LAX@aol.com>
Walnut Creek, CA USA - Thursday, February 08, 2001 at 16:18:18 (PST)

Diane was the best coach I have ever had. She brought a group of girls together, most of which had never played, and turned us into a competative division 1 team. Her energy, spirit, and love for the game was contagious. But her love of life will be carried on by all those
Meghan Jones <JONES5LAX@aol.com>
Walnut Creek, CA USA - Thursday, February 08, 2001 at 16:11:37 (PST)

I was fortunate enough to get to know Diane at Penn State. She was full of life and laughter and she will be missed by all who knew her. This tragedy is so difficult to understand but I take comfort in knowing that Diane has a special place in Heaven. The Lord has called his angel home and I look forward to seeing her again. I pray for Diane's family, friends and relatives. I hope that you are able to find peace. Diane's memory will live on for all of us. Her laugh, her smile and her gusto for living will never be forgotten. God bless you, Diane. You will be missed but, more importantly, forever treasured.
Tom <tsam222@yahoo.com>
Mechanicsburg, PA USA - Thursday, February 08, 2001 at 11:40:09 (PST)

To Diane Whipple's family, fiends, LaCrosse team and her partner in Life. I did not know Diane but she has touched my life and the lives of so many more that did not know her through the stories of all who loved her. We do not know why things like this happen to people but just remember how she has touched you hearts and your souls, there's not many people who can do that. Even though her human body is gone from this world her energy lives on, just be open to it and you will feel her presence and her love. There's a saying that goes like this; Friends...... are Angels following you through life. Diane will always be your daughter, your friend, your coach, your partner and most of all she will always be your ANGEL!
Lisa <Mydogtrevor@aol.com>
CA USA - Wednesday, February 07, 2001 at 17:45:17 (PST)

To Diane Whipple's family, friends, LaCrosse team and her partner in Life. I did know know Diane but she had touched my life and lives of so many more that did not know her through the stories of all who loved her. We do not know why things like this happen to people but just remember how she has touched your hearts and your souls, there's not many people who can do that. Even though her human body is gone from this world her energy lives on just be open to it and you will feel her presence and love. There's a saying that goes like this; Friends..... are Angels following you through life. She will always be your daughter, your friend, your coach, your partner in Life and most of all she will alway be your ANGEL!
Lisa <Mydogtrevor@aol.com>
CA USA - Wednesday, February 07, 2001 at 17:31:10 (PST)

Dear Whipple Family & Friends: I send you all my most heartfelt condolences over the loss of Diane. I did not know her, but her tragic death has had a profound effect on me and has angered me so deeply that I was prompted to write a letter to San Francisco's District Attorney on her behalf. I pray for justice every day, and I will pray that peace and happiness can find it's way back into the lives of everyone that loved her. I am so sorry for your loss.
Jill Schmidt <jschmidt@bravanta.com>
San Francisco, CA USA - Wednesday, February 07, 2001 at 10:42:41 (PST)

Diane was the greatest of all coaches and I hope my teammates and I can live up to and play the way she has taught us. She was truly an inspiration and I will never forget her. To all my teammates - I love you all. Thank you to everyone who sends out their prayers.
Desiree Otsuka <dotsuka@stmarys-ca.edu>
Lafayette, CA USA - Tuesday, February 06, 2001 at 18:40:31 (PST)

Diane is going to be missed by her family, friends, and the entire lacrosse community. She brought a smile to my face everyday. I will never forget training for the San Diego marathon with her. All the good memories and her spirit will be with me forever. Thanks for being such a good friend!
Sarah Miller <slmiller@stmarys-ca.edu>
Moraga, CA USA - Tuesday, February 06, 2001 at 10:37:10 (PST)

Our heartfelt condolences. We didn't know Diane, but she has touched us, all the same. Her family and friends are in our prayers.
Laura Lang <Lang@KeatingLang.com>
San Diego, CA USA - Monday, February 05, 2001 at 12:26:46 (PST)

May you rest in Peace Diane, from the readings of others you were a beautiful person. We send prayers to all your friends and family, through this trying time. God Bless
Tabraham
Riverside, Ca USA - Friday, February 02, 2001 at 20:04:53 (PST)

I would like to express my condolences to Diane's family and close friends. I was fortunate to have been able to get to know Diane when she interned at the Innisbrook Resort in Palm Harbor, Florida. Diane was full of life and a joy to be around. I'll never forget Diane setting up a lacrosse goal in my yard so she could practice for her tryout with the US National Team. My thoughts and prayers are with her family.
Linda Schluderberg <Tarheel815@aol.com>
Baltimore, MD USA - Thursday, February 01, 2001 at 14:13:05 (PST)

I never met Diane, but I was deeply moved by the story and her tragic death. I feel that something must be done to bring justice and closure here - but I'm not sure what it is. If anyone from Diane's family is reading this - do you need any help? Is there a fund set up in Diane's name that you'd like me to contribute to? I am seriously ready and willing to help if needed. I think big scary dogs have no place in our city - this is even more evident that someone as healthy and fit as Diane can be overpowered. This concerns us all!
David Herschman <david@flipside.com>
san Francisco, ca USA - Wednesday, January 31, 2001 at 13:28:41 (PST)

Diane was a very caring person and a fantastic athlete. She was definitely an inspiration to a lot of young women athletes. My fondest memory of her was my freshman year at Penn State. Diane had finished her career at PSU the previous season having won the National Championship, but continued to support the team. I was the only freshman on the team that year and was very depressed because I was not given much playing time. Diane sent me a tiny little bear to keep with me on the sidelines to keep my spirits up and to remind me that she was cheering for me. I still have that little bear and I have never forgotten her kindness and support. Although Diane has passed, she will live on in the memories of those whose lives she touched, those she has inspired and through the game she loved.
Sarah Hoysted Barksdale <Laxlion@yahoo.com>
Hamilton, NJ USA - Wednesday, January 31, 2001 at 11:42:57 (PST)

I am the husband of one of Diane's closest friends from her college days at Penn State University. I can asure you that this tragic event has deeply affected my wife and many of Diane's college teammates and friends. She was a wonderful person and loved by many. Our deepest condolences and heartfelt prayers go out to her family. I personally came to know Diane and am familiar with her kind and loving nature. Many times she sent warm wishes and gifts to our 2 year old son whom she met only once. For those acts of kindness I thank her and will never forget her. Our family prays for her and we know she is in a better place. Barry, Karen, and Colin Allen Baltimore, Maryland.
Barry Allen co: Karen Hoysted <blallen@rcn.com>
USA - Wednesday, January 31, 2001 at 09:24:07 (PST)

To all the Family and friends of Diane my husband and myself send our condolences and prayers. God Bless. Mary & BIll
Bill & Mary Frogue <BROFROGYOU@AOL.COM>
Riverside, Ca. USA - Tuesday, January 30, 2001 at 19:44:49 (PST)

Dear family, friends and team-members of Dianne Whipple, I have had you in my prayers even before I knew the name of the this beautiful vital woman who died last Friday. I know words can do little to take away the terrible pain, but I pray that you take solace in knowinf of the indelible mark that Dianne left in this world and that her inspiration will live on. She has inspired me and I never even met her. Much love and blessings to you and Dianne.
Susan <hein57@pacbell.net>
San Francisco, CA USA - Tuesday, January 30, 2001 at 16:39:38 (PST)

Dear Whipple family and friends: I read the heartfelt obituary, and see clearly how many people her death has affected...Diane was an amazing woman of many talents! She was obviously the child of a loving family and extended family of friends, as well. There is cold comfort in these words, but my heart goes out to all who knew her. I pray that you, the living can glean inspiration from her life and that the light of her inspiration outshines the darkness of this massive loss. nina
nina veil <ninaveil@hotmail.com>
greensboro, nc USA - Tuesday, January 30, 2001 at 06:51:51 (PST)

My deepest condolences to the family, friends, and co-workers of Diane. I have read many stories since her tragic passing and she was a very special lady.
Brian Kornegay <oneputt@pacific.net>
Ukiah, CA USA - Monday, January 29, 2001 at 23:00:57 (PST)