Aniello “Neal” Dianese, 66, of Gilbertsville

Aniello “Neal” Dianese, 66, of Gilbertsville, husband of Barbara A. (Maderick) Dianese, was called home on Thursday, Oct. 28 at Lehigh Valley Hospital.

Born in Rodio, Italy, he was the son of the late Alessandro and Anella (Dianese) Dianese.

Neal was a longtime member of St. Columbkill Catholic Church. He enjoyed participating in the Bucktown chapter of the Beer Tasters Club. He was an alumnus of Temple University (though a huge Penn State fan) and received his master’s degree in computer education from the former Philadelphia College of Textiles and Science in 1989. Neal worked as a teacher in the Owen J. Roberts School District from 1980 to 2012, where he volunteered for many extracurriculars in addition to teaching part-time at Reading Area and Montgomery County Community Colleges. He adored spending time with his grandchildren. Neal was an avid RVer and enjoyed hiking, gardening, house projects, and a nice cup of espresso.

Surviving with his wife are daughters Nancy Lynn Dianese, Laura Himler, wife of Christopher, and Sarah Wiemer, wife of Kestin; siblings Claudia Alfano, Gaetano Dianese, Antonio Dianese, Walter Dianese, and Annamaria Dianese; and grandchildren Austin, Riley, Casey, and Charlotte. He was expecting a new grandson in January.

A funeral Mass will be celebrated on Thursday, November 4 at 11:00AM at St. Columbkill RC Church, 200 Indian Spring Road, Boyertown, with visitation at the church from 9:30AM to 10:45AM. For those attending, masks are encouraged to be worn. Neal will be buried in his native Italy at a later date.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in Neal’s name to the National Kidney Foundation, 30 East 33rd Street, New York, NY 10016 or Feeding America, 1627 I Street NW, Suite 1000 Washington, DC 20006.

Add My Condolences

It was an honor and privilege working with Neal as a colleague at OJR. His life touched not just those he taught but those like myself who knew and worked with him. Neal left our world in a much better place than the one he entered!

~ Marc Lieberson
11/9/2021 10:09:31 AM

Neil, I loved having you as a teacher in 11th grade. I loved having you as a friend even more. It was a pleasure getting to know you and your wife Barbara (“Bunnie”)thru BTC. One of my first BTC experience was having a Pig Iron Porter with you and the gang during the Xmas field trip to Iron Hill Brewery in West Chester. Also, thank you to you and your wife for helping me navigate choosing a cardiologist. I will also really miss talking about RV’s and getting tips from you. The picture from your most recent trip out with the new dog were beautiful. I’d like to follow in your footsteps when I retire and travel by RV. My sympathy and condolences your wife, children and family.

~ Jeremy Dalton Pottstown, PA
11/4/2021 9:40:19 AM

I’ve never met a harder working person. Neil always had to have a project. He was a good man, good husband and father/grandfather.I remember him helping Nick get through something in math. My heart and prayers go out to you.??

~ Terry haas
11/4/2021 8:15:18 AM

So sorry to hear about Neal, my deepest condolences to you and the girls. Praying GOD gives you peace and comfort !! Your friend from Florida, Cindy Clark

~ Cindy Clark Leesburg, FL
11/3/2021 1:31:42 PM

Our condolences to the family for your loss.

~ Thomas & Sandra Jevit Kelayres, PA
11/2/2021 8:13:59 PM

Dear Mrs. "Bunny" Dianese, Children, Grandchildren and the Whole Dianese Family,
We were shocked to hear of the passing of Aniello a dear paisano and friend. Our toughts and prayers are with all of you during this difficult time. May great memories and times live on forever in your hearts and your minds. May he rest in peace and god bless you all. Deepest Sympathy and Sentiti Condoglanze from the Tambasco Family.

~ Lidia and Natale Tambasco Hazleton, PA
11/2/2021 12:36:45 PM

although we drifted apart through the years, some of my fondest life memories were shared with Neal. He was passionate, dynamic, and exemplified how life should be celebrated each and every day. My sincere condolences to his family. He will always be in my heart and his infectious smile and laugh will always make me smile.

~ Howard Narrow Hazle Township, PA
11/2/2021 8:56:04 AM

I was so sorry to hear of his passing. I have not seen him for many years, but your entire family have been in my heart for my lifetime. I will always remember the warm welcoming I felt sleeping over often as a kid. You're entire family is in my thoughts and prayers.

~ Johnna Willman Temple, PA
11/1/2021 8:18:09 PM

My deepest sympathies. I worked with Neal for many years at OJR. Although he retired a while ago, he was still missed and talked about fondly and frequently. I smile when I remember the day he brought espresso to our professional development day. There might have been a tiny bit of sambucca too. I hope you will be sustained by your many happy memories.

~ Debbie Harvey
10/31/2021 3:30:36 PM

The news of losing the Patriarch of such a wonderful family is such sad news. I will remember Neal fondly, and pray that the beautiful memories of him hold you up and soon turn from sadness to loving comfort.

~ Fay Algeo
10/31/2021 11:36:28 AM

My heart felt condolences to the entire family. My God give comfort to you all in these times of need.

~ Terrance Oates
10/30/2021 10:44:14 PM

We are so sorry to hear of Neils passing. He was always a pleasure to be with and will be greatly missed. May God be with you and your family and give you comfort. Our deepest sympathies.

~ Brian and Deb Cushman Drums, Pa
10/30/2021 7:49:30 PM

I only knew Neal for a few years but always enjoyed being in his company. A really nice man.

~ Trudi wiemer Media, Pa
10/30/2021 6:49:55 PM