Obituary of Diane Margaret Peterson

Diane Margaret Conklin Peterson left this world exactly 70 years from the day she entered it. She is now frolicking in the cosmos with her brother Doug, father David, grandmother Elva, and grandfather Richard.

She spent most of her adult career caring for others as a nursing aid in hospitals, home care giver to the elderly, or caring for adults with disabilities.  Beyond caring for others professionally, she gave love, comfort, and acceptance to so many children, teenagers and adults. Anyone who basked in her sweet smile’s glow or was held in her embrace can attest to feeling loved, even if just meeting her for the first time.

Diane adored family and stayed in touch with the furthest reaches of all the family trees, and even neighboring branches. The  walls of her home were literally covered with pictures of every family member, every friend, and every child she hugged and loved. She kept them all in her thoughts every day.

But of course, there were people  most dear to her. Her siblings Dave  (& Joannie), Doug (& Kathy), and Susan (& Al), mother Janet (& Ronnie), uncle Phil (& Carrie), cousins, in-laws, nieces and nephews all meant the world to her. 

Then there is the love of her entire life, her Romeo, her rock, her rose and thorn, her husband Pete of 51 years. Together they welcomed four babies into this world. She was not only immensely proud of her children, but also proud of herself for giving them the gift of siblings so they would always have each other as bulwarks against the tumults of life. Orion, Chris, Sam (& Chase), and Heather will miss her endlessly, but will always find her in each other.

Diane’s loving energy was felt by countless friends and family who will forever remember her.

In lieu of flowers please donate to St Labre Indian School in Diane Peterson’s name. https://www.stlabre.org

Per Diane’s wishes, a celebratory remembrance party is in the works for this coming spring. Details to follow.