A Celebration of Life will be held on Zoom, Sat. Feb 19 at 2pm. Information to follow.

“The Queen” to those who loved her (as well as many of her graduate students), died of heart disease in her home in Ashland OR, January 12, 2022.  She loved and was loved by many.

Needless to say, as the oldest child and only girl in a family of 5 children, there are many stories of her and her brothers’ childhoods. This may have contributed to her playfulness and sense of humor on display throughout her life.  Dianne had a strong connection to her family including many close aunts, uncles and cousins. She was part of a high school graduating class of 42 students in Lanesboro, Minnesota, many of whom she remained friends with to the end. The values of this small midwest town and those of her parents Phyllis and Leroy to be honest, hardworking and compassionate guided her life.  She is survived by brothers Philip (Linda Bjorkson), Greg (Kay) and Scott, Scott’s children Seri and Levi, and Greg’s daughter Ashley. She was proceeded in death by her brother Doug and her beloved Mom and Dad.

Dianne was a committed teacher; first teaching high school mathematics in Deerfield, IL, then middle school mathematics in Talent OR.  After earning her PhD at the University of Oregon, she went on to teach at Oregon State University.  She was the rare college professor who truly valued using research to teach, prepare and assist teachers in the improvement of their practice, with the ultimate goal of enhancing opportunities for all students to be successful in their mathematics education.

Dianne was a dedicated member of the Unitarian Universalist Fellowship in both Corvallis and Ashland.  The acceptance, caring and compassion in Universal Unitarianism were a good fit for her.  She tirelessly worked on many committees providing leadership and ideas.  And in April of 2015, she and the love of her life, Lois Pettinger, partner of 47 years, were married at the Rogue Valley Unitarian Universalist Fellowship of Ashland.

Dianne appreciated beauty in all forms.  She loved the theatre, the orchestra (she played the baritone in high school), and the beauty of the natural world around her.  She expressed such great joy in singing.  She sang alto in the choir, she & Lois hosted Christmas caroling parties, and she would harmonize whenever possible.
A remembrance celebration will be planned at a later date.  Until then, Goodbye, Darlin’.  You were loved by many and will be missed.

In lieu of flowers, please support your local schools. (link to published obituary)