Peacefully and comfortably, Lynne Dilyard Molzen passed away, Friday, January 12, 2024, after a courageous struggle with Alzheimer’s Disease.
Born in Oak Park, Illinois, the daughter of Doris (Anderman) and Frank Hackman, Lynne graduated from Lyons Township High School before moving to Ohio. She worked at Firestone Tire & Rubber to help support her late husband Richard (Rich) Dilyard as he completed his studies in art and design until they started their beloved family. They settled in Wooster together where they lived for over 25 years until Rich’s passing in 1986. The ever-gracious person that Lynne was, she remained in Wooster for another 37 years.
While raising her spirited adolescent children, Scott and Lora, she earned her Associate BA from the University of Akron-Wayne. Lynne then began working for W.H.I.R.E. Social Services, continuing her understated, lifelong mission of helping others. As many can attest, when someone needed assistance in any time of crisis or need, no matter the level of urgency, she was not one to let a call go and never one to shy away from the potential challenge of helping.
Through dear friends, Lynne met Chet Molzen, a thoughtful designer and, shall it be said, a happy cynic. After deeply connecting through their mutual love of art, modern design and otherwise all-around enjoyment of life together, they were married in 1997. They enjoyed 26 years of cultivating an appreciation of artistic expression, culture and kindness, and they entertained so many sharing their same passions.
In 2005, at the age of 66, Lynne completed her BA from the University of Akron with a focus in art. Those were the years of her wonderful exploration of her talents, painting, Italy, art shows and visits to every museum she could while embarking on plenty of road trips with the “kids” in her classes. Her youthful spirit really shined amongst the creative young souls she spoke of fondly as her classmates. She captured so much of herself in the beautiful works she created as she accomplished her goal of finishing her degree.
The legacy Lynne leaves is one filled with warm smiles, thoughtful gestures, honest (perhaps sometimes too honest!) truths, deep faith both spiritually and in humankind, selfless service and thankfulness for beauty in the world. Many walks around the neighborhood will lack a familiar friendly wave. Cozy fireside chats seated on modern classic furniture will not be the same without her. Bountiful meals shared with family and friends will be missing her beautiful spirit. Recipes shared with her favorite people will now be served on family tables without her but cherished more and more. Whether at Hartzler’s Dairy, in Chautauqua or anywhere Lynne could share a scoop with the people she loved, please savor every amazing melty lick of ice cream in her honor.
Lynne is survived by her husband Charles (Chet) Molzen II of Wooster, OH, and her children Scott Dilyard (wife Susan Joy, M.D.) of Sacramento, CA, and Lora Rice (husband James) of Troy, IL, and her grandchildren Anthony, Nathaniel, Zachary and Elijah; her great-granddaughter Athena (Attie); sister Nancy (Hackman) Webb and brother-in-law Dennis, of Wooster, OH; sister Nora (Hackman) Walker and brother-in-law David of Eugene, OR; stepson Charles (Crix) Molzen III and step grandson Charles (Bin) Molzen IV of Grinell, IA; stepdaughter Rachel Alsakkaf and step grandsons Devin and Dylan of Tucson, AZ. She is also survived by many beloved nieces and nephews and their children as well as all of the plants ever left in her care.
Lynne was predeceased by her husband Richard Dilyard, her twin brother Allen Hackman, her brother Guy Hackman and her niece Amy Weekley.
A memorial service will be held at 2:00 PM on Saturday, February 17, 2024, at Central Christian Church, 407 N. Market St. in Wooster with the Rev. Jonathan Rumburg and the Rev. Gregory Rumburg officiating. The family will greet friends at 1 p.m. prior to the service.
McIntire, Bradham & Sleek Funeral Home, 216 E. Larwill St., Wooster is assisting the family.
In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Alzheimer’s Association Greater East Ohio chapter in her name. Gifts can be made online at: http://act.alz.org/goto/Lynne_Molzen_Dilyard
Online condolences may be left for the family at www.mcintirebradhamsleek.com.
What a beautiful tribute to a beautiful lady, friend and neighbor – I will always remember times sitting together outside when weather permitted and sharing wonderful conversations always ending with a hug and promise of more conversations to come – Love you Lynn
So sad to hear the news of Lynn’s passing. She was such a beautiful person, inside and out. Rich and Lynn were my Godparents and I have many great childhood memories of them. My favorite memory of Aunt Lynn is when she would look at me and say something…anything. It didn’t matter what she said because I would just stare at her eyes. They were the most beautiful green eyes I’ve ever seen.
Lynne was such a sweet, kind lady. A good artist and lived in a family and household of beautiful art. Chet and Lynne were awesome. It was always something I looked forward to when I stepped inside their door and was greeted by Lynne’s smiling face.
28 years ago, I introduced myself to Lynne, “Hi, I’m going to be your new neighbor across the street. ” Unknowningly, she was still unpacking & organizing her new home, yet, she was gracious with her warm smile and kind eyes. Instantly, I knew I would like her. The like grew into a loved & cherished neighbor. You’re forever in my memories & heart, Lynne❤️.
I worked with Lynne at Maibach’s Home Furnishings in Sterling. She was always so sweet. I am so sorry for your loss.
Our condolences to the family. We haven’t been in contact for some time, but at one time we were quite close with Lynne, Rich and their children. God will certainly welcome her.
I worked at the UofA Wayne College for 35 years. There were many students who walked through our door that I don’t remember, but I do remember Lynne. She was unforgettable even now. I can see her walking into the office, always with a smile on her face and with her sidekick Sally Yoder. Lynne was such a wonderful person, and I have not forgotten her in all these years. My sincerest sympathy to her family. I know your memories will always be with you. Phyllis J. Wiebe
Sorry for your loss. She was a wonderful lady with a great soul, smile, and laugh. I helped her with her floor coverings in her new home and again when her and Chet moved onto their home together. I loved their décor and their fun playful connection with one another. Tell Chet I say Hello and give him a hug from me (the carpet lady). My parents passed this past year and we mentioned ice cream in my mom’s obituary too. I am sure they are both having a giggle eating their ice cream together and catching up, since they knew each other. 🙂
Nancy, I am so sorry to see of your sisters passing. My thoughts and prayers are with you and your family.
Lynne, along with Sally Yoder, were in a lot of my classes at Wayne college for social work. They both “mothered” us through our classes and our lives as well! Lynn was a beautiful woman who set an example for us all to live by… she had that quiet strength not many of us have💕