With heavy hearts and profound sorrow, we come together to honor and remember Dianne Clause, whose life was tragically taken on February 27, 2026, following a devastating crash in Papillion, Nebraska.
At approximately 5:57 p.m., first responders from the Sarpy County Sheriff’s Office, Papillion Police Department, Papillion Fire & Rescue, and Bellevue Fire & Rescue responded to a report of a serious personal injury crash at the intersection of Highway 370 and 66th Street in Papillion. Despite the swift and courageous efforts of emergency personnel, the collision would ultimately claim the life of a beloved member of the community — 74-year-old Dianne Clause of Papillion.
The crash involved a black Jeep Grand Cherokee driven by Maria Villalobos Madera, age 30, of Bellevue, and a Honda CR-V driven by Shawn Peach, age 45, of Papillion. According to the preliminary investigation, the Honda was traveling eastbound on Highway 370 and attempting to turn left onto 66th Street, while the Jeep was traveling westbound straight through the intersection. The vehicles collided within the intersection, resulting in serious injuries to several individuals and the heartbreaking loss of Dianne’s life.
Dianne was transported to CHI Health Creighton University Medical Center – Bergan Mercy, where, despite medical efforts, she was tragically pronounced deceased. Three other passengers in the Honda were also taken to Bergan Mercy for treatment of serious but non-life-threatening injuries, while the driver of the Jeep and one passenger were hospitalized with serious injuries. Though others survived, this tragedy has left lasting emotional wounds on all involved.
Today, we pause not only to recount the details of that painful evening but to remember the woman whose life meant so much to so many.
At 74 years old, Dianne Clause carried with her a lifetime of love, wisdom, and quiet strength. She was a woman who understood the value of family, friendship, and community. Whether she was offering a warm smile, a thoughtful word of advice, or simply her presence, Dianne had a way of making those around her feel seen and cared for. Her kindness was steady and sincere — the kind that leaves a lasting imprint on hearts.
To her family, she was more than a name in a report — she was a mother, grandmother, sister, aunt, and friend. She was the keeper of cherished memories and traditions, the one who remembered birthdays, told stories of years gone by, and offered comfort in times of need. Her home was likely a place of warmth and welcome, filled with laughter and the quiet reassurance that only someone like Dianne could provide.
To friends and neighbors in Papillion, she was a familiar and comforting presence. Over the years, she built connections rooted in trust and compassion. Her life reflected the values of resilience, generosity, and grace. Though her passing came far too suddenly, the years she lived were rich with meaning and love.
Tragedies like this remind us of the fragility of life and the importance of treasuring every moment. While investigations by the Sarpy County Sheriff’s Office Crash Response Unit continue, our focus remains on honoring Dianne’s memory and supporting her grieving loved ones. No investigation can measure the depth of her impact or the void her absence now creates.
As her family navigates the unimaginable pain of loss, may they find comfort in knowing that Dianne’s life mattered deeply. May they draw strength from the memories she helped create — holiday gatherings, shared meals, heartfelt conversations, and quiet everyday moments that now shine with greater meaning. Those memories are a legacy that no tragedy can erase.
The Sarpy County Sheriff’s Office has extended its deepest condolences to the family and friends of Dianne Clause, as well as to all those affected by this tragic event. The community stands with them in grief and solidarity.
Though her earthly journey has ended, Dianne Clause’s spirit lives on in the lives she touched. In every act of kindness inspired by her example, in every story shared about her warmth and wisdom, she will continue to be remembered.
May her soul rest in eternal peace, and may her family find comfort in the love that surrounds them. Dianne Clause will never be forgotten.
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