Diane Marie McIntosh

Diane Marie Ordakowski McIntosh lived a life shaped by loyalty, independence, and a deep compassion for animals. Born in March 1951 in Washington, D.C., Diane was the daughter of Chester and Helen Ordakowski and the sister of Paul Ordakowski, all of whom preceded her in death. 

Diane had an accomplished career in government service, beginning with the Navy immediately after graduating from Lee High School. Through hard work and a strong sense of responsibility, she rose through the ranks before transitioning mid-career to support the Air Force. She retired after 36 years of service, though her expertise remained so valued that she returned for several years to assist during promotion cycles.

Outside of her career, Diane was known for her strong opinions, her meticulous nature, and her unique sense of humor. She was always early, always organized, and always clear about exactly what she wanted. She enjoyed ATV rides, boating, spa pedicures, IHOP, and her favorite Diet Cherry Pepsi. 

Diane’s greatest passion was caring for animals, especially those others overlooked. She drove hundreds of thousands of miles transporting animals from overcrowded shelters in the South to places where they could find homes, saving countless lives along the way. She also ran the Happy Hounds Dog Program at Roxbury Correctional Institute near Hagerstown, Maryland, where she helped pair rescue dogs with inmates for specialized training. Her home was always open to senior dogs considered “unadoptable.” Though it was never easy to say goodbye, she believed deeply that every animal deserves a safe and loving home, no matter how much time they had left.

Diane was preceded in death by her husband, Captain Greg McIntosh of the Fairfax County Fire Department. Her first husband, Jack Burrows, remained a dear friend over the years, which serves as a reflection of Diane’s loyalty. She is survived by her niece, Lisa Marie Ordakowski Czop, and her great-nephews, Grayson and Carter Czop, her sister-in-law, Susan Ordakowski, and numerous cousins.

Funeral Mass will be held May 21st @ 11am 

                  St. Bernadette Catholic Church   

                  7600 Old Keene Mill Road

                  Springfield, VA 22152

 Interment at 1pm immediately following the service

                 National Memorial Park Cemetery

                 7482 Lee Highway

                 Falls Church, VA 22042

Celebration of Diane's Life will be held May 30 from 1pm - 3pm at the home of her sister-in-law in Woodbridge, VA

               Please message dianecelebration@yahoo.com to RSVP for the May 30th Celebration of Life Service and for directions.

In lieu of flowers, donations to Lost Dog and Cat Rescue Foundation in Diane's name would be greatly appreciated.

P.O. Box 50037
Arlington, VA 22205

http://www.lostdogrescue.org

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