News

From Past MSDC President Dr. Raymond Scalettar

I have the fondest of memories for Dianne. She was an important member of the Medical Society of DC.  

We connected when I ran for election for the AMA Board of Trustees and President, She had wonderful ideas and recommendations and knew how to organize and run a campaign.  This was especially so at my first run for Board of Trustees when I was relatively unknown and was not Chair of a Committee as were my opponents.  But her handouts on my proposed AMA policies began to resonate and her organizational skills were excellent. We surprised many when I was elected in 1985 defeating several incumbents.

She was always there for me.  My successes at the AMA had so much to do with her tireless effort.  Yes we lost a few campaigns at the end.  We anticipated the outcome and she and I knew what to expect.  But that is politics and we both went back to our daily jobs. 

Rest in peace, Dianne.

Published obituary

Dianne Louise Bricker
February 6, 1951 — January 24, 2024
Downingtown

Dianne L. “Dandy” Bricker, age 72, of Downingtown, PA, passed away peacefully on January 24, 2024 surrounded by family in the home of her sister.  Her energy, intelligence, creativity and spirit will be missed by all who knew her.

She was born in Lancaster, PA to the late Walter K. and Gladys (née Buck) Bricker. She is survived by her sister, Lin Kilburn; brother in law, Thomas Kilburn and their two daughters Lindsay Kilburn Campbell (Scott) and Whitney Witczak (Kyle). She was a fun loving Great Aunt to Lily and Tyler Witczak and Anya, Everett, and Cormac Campbell. She was predeceased by her loving partner of 10 years, Joe Hadley.

She grew up in Marion, Indiana where, among other activities, she excelled in high school as the editor of an award winning yearbook and a cheerleader. She graduated from Purdue University in 1973 with a degree in Radio, TV and Film and then backpacked around Europe returning to the US with only $21 in her pocket.

She began her career in Public Relations and Communications working for hospitals in Fort Wayne, Indiana and Cincinnati, Ohio. She then continued her commitment to the medical field by working with The Medical Society in Cincinnati and later the Medical Society in Washington, DC. She completed her career directing government relations in eleven states for America’s Health Insurance Plans (AHIP). While living and working in the DC area she supported many neighbors, friends and family as well as volunteering in the community.

Upon retirement in 2017, she moved to Downingtown, PA to be closer to family. She poured her heart, energy and skills into volunteering. As an art lover, she enjoyed serving as a Gallery Ambassador and “Critter” creator at the Brandywine Museum of Art. She also loved volunteering at People’s Light Theater and was the Chairperson for their annual fundraising Gala in 2023. She was very dedicated to Central Presbyterian Church in Downingtown where she became a Trustee. She was involved with mission trips to Houston and North Carolina, organized the first Blessing of the Animals, and was the Church Photographer.

Dianne lived life to the fullest. Among her adventures were two Outward Bound courses in North Carolina and the Canyonlands of Utah, white water rafting in West Virginia and Colorado, horseback riding camp in Missouri, skydiving, swimming with dolphins, and Road Scholar Programs. She was often seen wearing her trademark overalls and Converse sneakers. She loved naps in a hammock, old movies, time with family, spirited debates, walks with her beloved dog Goldie, Haagen Daz Salted Caramel Ice Cream, Peepers glasses and anything black and white. Her life was a blessing to all who knew her.

Relatives and friends are invited to her Celebration of Life on February 5, 2024 at the Central Presbyterian Church, 100 West Uwchlan Ave, Downingtown. PA 19335. Visitation will be from 9:30-10:30 am with the service following. Interment will be private.

Dianne loved to support her nieces in their work, so in lieu of flowers, she asked that you consider a donation in her memory to The Peacemaker Center (peacemakercenter.org) or Children’s National Hospital, Center for Cancer and Blood Disorders (giving.childrensnational.org).