Thursday, April 7, 2016
Dear Family,
I was shocked and saddened to read of Diane's death. She was a kind and generous person who made a huge, lasting impact on our family. Years ago we were a young Anderson Barracuda/YMCA family who lived on the "Turpin" side of Anderson. Diane reached out to me and invited us to apply for membership at Anderson Hills Swim Club. With the exception of a few Barracuda families, we did not know anyone who belonged there. Diane made a point of introducing us, getting our young children signed up for lessons and swim team, and making me, a young working mom, comfortable and welcome. She was so inclusive that our youngest (now 30) as a toddler called Anderson Hills "Mrs. Byers' pool". Our children made new friends and became very happy and active Anderson Hills "Gators": swimming on the team, participating in weekly age-group activities and creating summers to cherish and remember. All swam in high school and Greg swam in college and eventually coached at Anderson Hills.This was all possible because Diane reached out and invited us to share a place that was special to her. Today our sons are parents of young children and live in New York, San Francisco and Cleveland. All three plan to join a swim club so that their children can duplicate the wonderful summers they experienced. Thank you, Diane. May you rest in peace.
Gratefully, Marty Rauen
