Lois M Dietrich

Lois Margaret (Richardson) Dietrich

Lois Margaret (Richardson) Dietrich, age 93, passed away peacefully on June 1, 2026, surrounded by her loving family, leaving behind a legacy of love, hard work, and devotion to those she cherished most.

Lois was born on January 5, 1933, to Lloyd and Helen (Folkers) Richardson in a farmhouse near Grand Detour Township, Illinois. As a child, her family later moved approximately seven miles south of Polo, Illinois.

Lois graduated from the historic Henry School and was a member of the Polo High School Class of 1950. During her school years, she was active in 4-H, played the baritone horn in the school band, and participated in FFA activities.

Throughout her early years, Lois was employed by several area businesses, including Kable News, Kable Printing, and Watt Publishing in Mt. Morris, Illinois.

Lois met Harold Dietrich, the love of her life, at the White Pines Roller Palace, where they both enjoyed roller skating. After dating for three years, they were united in marriage on September 5, 1952. After moving their family to the farm in January 1959, she devoted herself to the home and life she loved. From the garden, she would wave a white flag every evening to let her husband know dinner was ready and it was time to come in from the field. The farm remained her cherished home until her last week of life, and now having waved her final white flag, Lois has been welcomed into eternal peace.

Lois was a devoted farm wife and partner who worked tirelessly while creating a warm and loving home for their family. Known for her kind heart, strong spirit, and gentle nature, she welcomed family and friends with warmth, hospitality, and a full cookie jar. She taught by example the importance of hard work and perseverance. Her family will forever cherish memories of family and holiday gatherings, home-cooked meals (that always included her famous cherry pie), and the countless ways she made everyone feel loved. She enjoyed sewing, gardening, crocheting, baking, and helping on the family farm.

Although our hearts are broken, we take comfort in knowing that she lived a long and meaningful life, surrounded by those she loved most. More than anything, Lois treasured her family and took great pride in caring for those she loved. Her children, grandchildren, great-grandchildren, step-grandchildren, and step-great grandchildren were the center of her world. She delighted in their accomplishments, celebrated their milestones, and cherished every opportunity to spend time together.

She is survived by her five children:

Beverly (Terry) Olson of Oregon, Illinois Randy Dietrich of Leaf River, Illinois Kristine (Burns) Mullins of Wytheville, Virginia Mark Dietrich of Leaf River, Illinois Karen Northrop of Byron, Illinois

She is also survived by her beloved grandchildren, great-grandchildren, step-grandchildren, and step-great grandchildren.

Lois was preceded in death by her beloved husband of 68 years, Harold Dietrich; her parents, Lloyd and Helen Richardson; her sister, Eleanor Snodgrass, and son-in-law JB Northrup.

The family would like to express their heartfelt gratitude to the caregivers, nurses, and hospice staff who provided compassionate care and comfort.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to Serenity Hospice & Home, 1658 S IL Route 2, Oregon, IL 61061.

A private burial will take place with immediate family.

Forever loved, forever remembered.