Lynn Dietrich Pansch's Obituary
Lynn Dietrich Pansch, 94, of Decatur, entered the Lord’s eternal kingdom Sunday, December 1, 2024, in Decatur, IL.
Lynn Dietrich was born on September 30, 1930, in Decatur, Illinois. He was a son of the late Karl and Elisabeth Pansch. His family moved back to Germany shortly after his birth, where he was raised in Cologne and Salzgitter before returning to Decatur in 1955. He married Elisabeth “Bets” E.E. Golombeck in 1954 in Duisburg, Germany. They enjoyed 49 years together until her passing in 2004. He apprenticed as an accountant in Germany, followed by a 36-year career at Caterpillar (Decatur Plant), where he retired as an accounting supervisor in 1992.
Lynn Dietrich was a member of St. John’s Lutheran Church. Along with the late Dave Petrowsky, he was instrumental in organizing and developing Decatur’s youth soccer program in the late 70’s/early 80’s. That was followed by 20-plus years as a high school and college soccer referee. Later years were spent exercising at the Decatur Indoor Sports Center, reading, and enjoying the friendships of Bob Jelks Sr. and Brian Peters.
Surviving are his sons, Ralf Pansch and wife Mary, of Decatur; Detlev Pansch and wife Julie, of Tuscan, AZ; granddaughters, Stefanie of Springfield, IL and Lili of Tuscan, AZ. He was preceded in death by his wife, parents, and brother.
Visitation for Lynn Dietrich will begin at 10:00 a.m., on Friday, December 6, at St. John’s Lutheran Church. Memorial Service will begin at 11:00 a.m., with the Rev. Aaron Bird officiating. Casual attire is encouraged!
The family would like to thank Dr. David Baumberger and staff; Dr. Nadal Aker and staff for their compassionate care. We would also like to thank the entire staff at Imboden Creek Gardens for providing the love and care in his wonderful new home.
Arrangements are in care of Graceland/Fairlawn Funeral Home. In lieu of flowers, please make memorials to: St. John’s Lutheran Church, 2727 N Union Street, Decatur IL 62526.
Lynn Dietrich will be forever cherished by his best friend, his granddaughter Stefanie.
What’s your fondest memory of Lynn?
What’s a lesson you learned from Lynn?
Share a story where Lynn's kindness touched your heart.
Describe a day with Lynn you’ll never forget.
How did Lynn make you smile?
