Diane Lynn (Bachofer) O’Brien Schooler (79) passed away in Salina, Kansas, on March 26th, 2025.

Diane was born on June 6th, 1945. Her parents were Gene and Helen Bachofer. She was raised in Salina, Kansas. Her love for helping others started when she worked for the Salina Rec Center as a teenager. After graduating from Sacred Heart High School, Diane attended Marymount College and graduated with a degree in Educational Psychology. She began working as an Assistant Juvenile Probation Officer and eventually transitioned to working as a teacher. She taught first grade for 10 years at Oakdale Elementary School before finally working as a Drug and Alcohol Counselor for youths at St. John’s Adolescent Treatment Unit in Salina.

Diane was the true definition of altruistic: “having or showing an unselfish concern for the welfare of others.” She had an unconditional, undying love for her family. Few things were more important to her than gathering with those she loved, and she showed up every single time, no matter what. She could be found capturing every moment at these family gatherings with her trusty, disposable camera. If you were lucky enough to be loved by Diane, you likely own a piece of her handmade pottery. She lived her life the way all of us should strive to live: she loved unconditionally; she gave even when she had nothing; and she faced life’s toughest challenges head-on. She was fiercely independent and unapologetically herself.

She is preceded in death by her parents, Gene and Helen Bachofer; brother, Eddie Bachofer; and many of her beloved pets.

She is survived by her three daughters: Tammy O’Brien, Tracey O’Brien (Greg), and Angela O’Brien; grandchildren DJ Short (Brooklyn), Kaitlyn Caswell, and Hannah Caswell; great-granddaughter Deklynn Short; siblings Jean Mull (Doug), Mary Bartow (Bill), and Joe Bachofer (Connie); and many nieces, nephews, and cousins. She is also survived by her beloved AA family.

There will be a Funeral Mass held Saturday, April 5th, at 11:00 am, at Sacred Heart Cathedral, Salina, KS. Interment will be at a later date.

In lieu of flowers, the family asks that memorials be made in care of Ryan Mortuary. You can also honor Diane by doing your eyebrows and performing random acts of kindness for someone.