Dianne Marie Allen Rodrigue
October 20, 1965 ~ June 18, 2023
Resided in:
Falmouth, Maine
Falmouth - Dianne Marie Allen Rodrigue, 57, a courageous and loving woman, passed away on June 18, 2023, surrounded by the love of her husband.
Born on October 20, 1965, in Rapid City, South Dakota, Dianne spent her formative years in the warm embrace of a midwestern upbringing: riding bicycles to school, weekends spent water skiing and boating on Lake Pactola, and ski trips with friends and family to nearby Terry Peak. Dianne exemplified true school spirit throughout her years at Stevens High School, where she played the French horn in the marching band, and supported her classmates as a cheerleader.
Dianne attended Arizona State University, where she studied nutrition and dietetics and was a member of the Pi Beta Phi sorority. Her experiences at ASU blessed her with cherished memories and friendships, and she was fortunate to reconnect with a number of her sorority “sisters” in Arizona this past winter. Dianne met Stephen Rodrigue in Boston in 1988, while working as an intern at Massachusetts General Hospital. After working as a renal nutritionist at Brigham and Women’s Hospital, she pursued a Master’s Degree in Health Science from Northeastern University. A dedicated and loving wife, Dianne married Stephen Rodrigue, M.D., on September 21, 1991.Over the next 9 years, Dianne worked as a physician assistant in St. Elizabeth Hospital’s cardiac unit, the couple saw the birth of their first child, and they moved to Maine to raise their growing family.
The couple cherished their life together, supporting each other's professional aspirations and raising their four children in Cumberland and Falmouth, Maine. For Dianne, family mattered the most. She was a warm, kind, and giving mother, and her generosity and support knew no bounds. This generosity and care were not only reserved for her human family; she was a provider of countless treats, lap sits, and walks to Dakota, Amos, and Freddie, the family’s 3 beloved dogs. She attended every event, game, and recital, while ensuring that her family had the chance to gather around the table for a home-cooked meal each night. Most importantly, she instilled strong values in her children; from small things like table manners and always remembering to write a thank you card, to lifelong lessons in honoring commitments and loving unconditionally.
Hard work and education were also two core values for Dianne. She continued her education later in life, earning an Accounting Degree from the University of Southern Maine. She then put it to use at Baker Newman Noyes, where she worked as a Senior Manager in Healthcare Consulting. She supported each of her children’s educational journeys as well, wherever it may have taken them. Dianne made sure that each of her children learned the importance of hard work and supporting one’s self, even if it meant she herself was giving rides to a shift at Hannaford, to the outlets in Freeport, or to the Portland Seadogs Stadium.
Dianne’s selflessness, generosity, and commitment to her community were apparent throughout her life. She served as President of the Philanthropic Educational Organization (P.E.O), supporting educational advancements for women in Maine. She also volunteered with the American Red Cross and represented Northern Light Home Care and Hospice as a Board Member. With 4 active and involved children, Dianne also gave her time to many school and team programs and classroom initiatives.
For someone who cherished warm weather and sunshine, Dianne surprised many with her longtime participation in the Snow Gals outing club, a group of athletic women who reveled in Maine winter adventures like ice climbing, Nordic hut-to-hut skiing, and snowshoeing. Through the frigid temperatures, early mornings, and long days, it was the deep bonds and treasured friendships that kept her looking forward to the next season.
Dianne's love for life extended to her hobbies, from snow skiing at Sugarloaf or waterskiing on Damariscotta Lake, to enjoying a good book on the beach or a picturesque game of golf in the Black Hills. Her love and knowledge of flowers and gardening were present wherever Dianne and her family called home, with every space brightened by her keen eye and green thumb.
Despite her cancer diagnosis, Dianne showed incredible strength and resilience, never harboring anger or focusing on her suffering. She continued to be active in her community, offering her wisdom and guidance to those around her. Her strong work ethic and dedication to her family remained unwavering, even in the face of adversity.
She is preceded in death by her father, Bruce Allen, M.D. who passed away in December of 2022. Dianne is survived by her loving husband, Stephen W. Rodrigue, M.D., of Falmouth; she was the beloved mother to her incredible children, Emily Rodrigue of Hailey, ID, Christian Rodrigue of Denver, CO and her twins, Collin Rodrigue of Orono, ME, and Annalise Rodrigue of Auburn, AL. She is also survived by her mother, Jackie Allen of Rapid City, SD; siblings, Karen Failinger of Denver, CO, Susan Sheehan and husband Brian of Tampa, FL, and Richard Allen, M.D., and wife Claire of Rapid City, SD.
A Celebration of Dianne's remarkable life will be held on Sunday, June 25 from 1-4PM at the Woodlands Country Club, 39 Woods Rd., Falmouth. Arrangements are under the direction of the Conroy-Tully Walker Funeral Home of Portland. To view Dianne's memorial page or to share an online condolence, please visit www.ConroyTullyWalker.com.
Those desiring may make a memorial contribution in Dianne's Memory to the Maine Cancer Foundation by clicking the link below.
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I know Dianne as Di. That’s what our friend group called her in high school. Di Babe, or Princess Di. I met her in Jr. High, as our lockers were in alphabetical order. Our maiden names were Allen and Bauer………..a friendship started, and by the end of high school, she had become one of my best friends. Living so far apart from one another was tricky, but I told her – every time you come home (to SD), I will come see you (from Colorado). I saw her last in Feb., for her Dad’s funeral, and was looking forward to seeing her in August for our 40th high school reunion. Love you, Di Babe! 💔
Dear Rodriguez family,
I knew Dianne for a short time but she made a strong, lasting impression on me. Her smile, warmth, and energy welcomed me back to P.E.O. when I moved back to Maine. I was so impressed with her kindness, strength and smarts! What a hole she leaves in this world. Her smile was contagious. My heart goes out to you all.
Bridget O’Brian
Dianne was the most precious friend I’ve ever known. I was blessed to have her as my pledge daughter in our Pi Beta Phi sorority at Arizona State University. She was always genuine, caring, and had a wild side to her that only her close friends knew. She had a smile and personality that would light up any room. Her sincerity and kindness were contagious and she always was an amazing leader and motivator! I have nothing more than positive and happy memories of Dianne…this world is a little less brighter now that she is gone, but I’m so grateful knowing that she’s in a better place and free of any pain. I love you, Dianne!
We met Dianne and Steve in1992 at the very start of Paul and Steve’s surgical internship at Beth Israel in Boston. They were living in Brighton at the time and extended an invitation to us for dinner. When we arrived, we found that Steve had been called into the hospital. In true style, Dianne met us at the door, with a
smile and greeting of “Hi, I’m Dianne. Steve got called in but I have a pork roast in the oven so please come in!”. With her impeccable skill of making everyone feel at home, the evening continued and the root was planted for a deep friendship of over 30 years. Dianne….we will truly miss you but have such gratitude for many wonderful memories! XO
This is an absolutely perfect tribute to our treasured friend. Dianne was truly an incredible spouse, mother and friend to many. Her absence will be deeply felt by all of us but her powerful example of living life to the fullest will live on.
In every memory I have of my cousin Dianne she is smiling. My favorite memory is when I was 11 and she was maybe 16. She let me tag along with her high school friends to Evan’s Plunge. It felt like a mini road trip, she drove, I sang along to the radio and her friends laughed. Elzbieta and I express our deepest sympathy to Stephen, Emily, Christian, Collin, Annalise and the entire Rodrigue and Allen families. We are so sorry for your loss.
Darren and Elzbieta Anderson
My heart aches. We shared so many great memories throughout Jr High and High School, between long softball trips across the country and shenanigans in the neighborhood. It’s hard to imagine a world without that bright smile in it. We connected last Christmas Eve and shared our family updates and news. She reassured me that we would make it through the emotional rollercoaster of being empty nesters. I’ll miss her kind words of wisdom. Hugs and love to Di’s family.
My daughter Molly and Annalise are close friends. On weekends throughout high school, the Rodrigue house was nearly a second home to Molly! Dianne always took the time to make Molly feel special and welcome there. Molly enjoyed the many kitchen counter conversations they shared there over the years; a few weeks ago, after a Memorial Day visit, she told me that Dianne was “one of her very favorite adults”.
I knew Dianne mostly through school and kid events where it was obvious she was as a loving and attentive mother. I also always liked talking to her about things outside our children’s lives; she was smart, interesting and genuine.
I am glad I got to know Dianne through our girls. I so appreciate the time she took to connect with my daughter through the years. That attention has meant a lot to Molly & she will remember it.
Annalise, we love you & we are holding you & your whole family in our hearts. Diana Stark
There aren’t enough words to describe Dianne – but selflessness, grace and courage come to mind. She made a great impact on the world. I’m honored to remember one of the best people I have ever met, my friend – Dianne.
Thoughts and prayers to the Rodrigue and Allen family.
Condolence, Dr, Rodrigue and family. Prayers.
I am so sorry for your family’s loss. You are all in my thoughts and prayers.
I’m so sorry to hear about Dianne’s passing! I haven’t seen Diane in a long time but I appreciated her spirit and volunteering at St Joseph’s/St. Brigid’s school when our children were there. There are no words that will ever completely erase your pain, May your memories of her become blessings…
Jenn DiRocco
I worked with Dianne many years ago at St. E’s and she was a fabulous physician assistant. I am so sorry for your loss, Steve. Dianne was a wonderful person and will be missed.
Jennifer Dundon
I wish I had the opportunity to get to know Dianne better. Thank you for sharing her inspirational life story, giving insight into how truly amazing a woman she was. Dianne’s love, selflessness and beauty is evident in how she was so instrumental in raising such a wonderful daughter, Annalise. I am blessed to have had a recent visit with Dianne when she and Annalise drove to our home to deliver a gift from our son on Mother’s Day. I remember her smile, so genuine and happy one would never imagine the pain she must have been enduring. I see Dianne in Annalise’s smile and will cherish the memory of sharing a hug on Mother’s Day 2023.
I knew Dianne as the youngest of the four truly beautiful Allen siblings, who like my family, grew up in First Presbyterian of Rapid City, SD. Dianne’s sister, Karen, was my classmate, post college roommate and continual friend. The Allens raised a wonderful family, and Dianne was the baby. They were a unit of love and beauty and I know her siblings miss her terribly already.
Sending my love to all of the Allens, those in Heaven and those on earth.
I have know Dianne since Junior high.
Dianne was always the kindest person to everyone. Her smile was infectious. She will be truly missed by everyone that knew her.
I am so sad to hear about Diane. I went to grade school, Jr high school and high school. She was such a beautiful, kind and smart lady. We were cheerleaders together. My prayers are with her family.
I admired how smart and talented she was. And her genuine kindness to everyone.
I was ALSO in that friend group that knew Dianne as Princess Di and Di Babe. My maiden name was Andrews, which would keep Di and I close through our school years: Lockers, seating assignments, etc. But the real reason that we were close was what we shared in the friendship realm. We cheered together, were in Band together, had some classes together (I wasn’t in nearly as many Honor classes as she was!) , and spent a lot of time together outside of school.
You just couldn’t get enough of Di..She was a friend to all, and anyone that knew her was better for it.
I might not have seen her as much as I wanted to, living so many states away, but she was always, and still is, in my heart.. Love you Di Babe
I met Dianne my Sophomore year in College when we both pledged Pi Beta Phi. From the moment I met her, she was such a beacon of light, and I knew she was special. We remained close our entire 4 years at ASU and were roommates our Senior year. My heart is heavy, but I know that she is in heaven spreading joy and love to those around her! We will meet again Lady Di! I love you!
Kathy Mara
I am so grateful you are not in pain anymore. I know that you are in heaven with my Mom and your Dad having the time of your life! We will meet again someday! Love and miss you so much! Kathy
Steve & family,
I am so very sorry to hear of Dianne’s passing. My thoughts, prayers, and love are with you all.
Sincere Condolences
Kathy Taylor
Dr. Rodrigue,
I am so deeply sorry to hear about your wife. I never met her, but it sounds like she was a lovely soul.
Thoughts and prayers for you and your family.
KayLynn
Dianne was a smart young lady. I went to school with her from grade school to high school. Really got to know her from all the math and science classes we had together in high school. She was a class act! Best wishes to the family during this difficult time.
Kip Larson
Sending my love and condolences to all of you. Dianne was my first friend in Maine, and we shared the connections of ASU, mom of twins, and love of PEO. She was a strong, loving, remarkable woman and will truly be missed. ~Laura Abbott-Simpson
Dianne was a very special lady. Her grace, strength and integrity were apparent in everything she did.
I feel blessed to have called her friend in addition to co-worker.
My deepest condolences to the Rodrigue and Allen family! She was so thoughtful and kind. She will be so missed and will forever be in my thoughts and prayers! Maribeth Labbe
My mentor, co-worker and friend… She was an amazing person. The most intelligent, fun loving person I have ever met.. She will be so missed… Love you Dianne!
With deepest condolences and respect, Nancy and Billy
Mary and are so saddened to hear of your loss. Although we’ve never met Dianne she sounds like an outstanding woman. We live in SC now and this is just catching up with us.
May God Bless you and your family. Our prayers are with you all.
Phil & Mary Galipeau
She loved life, always living it to the fullest. Her family was her everything and she was one proud mom.
Passionate, welcoming, caring, intelligent, brave and strong
Northeastern classmates turned fast friends. Together we explored Boston, traveled to conferences and later brought our families together for many adventures.Whether apple picking in Cumberland, chasing down Emily’s stolen boogie board after a day at the beach, hitting the ski slopes, tubing at the lake, vacationing on Nantucket, in Whistler, BC or Disney’s Typhoon Lagoon it was always special. Dianne was a bright light with a radiant smile. She will be terribly missed❤️
Thinking of you all and remembering Dianne’s beautiful smile and generous heart. She touched the lives of all who had the privilege of knowing her. Jan and I, along with Matthew, Ben, Andrew and Owen send our love. We are here for you always.
To Dianne’s family, please know she made our P.E.O. chapter stronger and better in every way, and shared her wisdom, mischievousness, and compassion freely with me individually. I will be forever grateful for the honest, sometimes difficult conversations we shared as President and Vice President, the roles reversing after her cancer came back. And I will always remember her grace, intellect, and kindness – as well as that glint in her eye when she would tease. It has been an honor and a pleasure knowing her. My deepest sympathy to all of you. Sarah Resah Wilson