Diane M. Olson

Diane Mary (Vanden Heuvel) Olson, 77, passed away on Monday, June 22, 2020.  She was born in Appleton, WI on April 12, 1943 to the late John and Magdalen “Peg” (Dresang) Vanden Heuvel.  Diane married the love of her life, Clifford “Cliff” Olson on May 2, 1966.  They remained in Appleton and raised three daughters.  Diane was a loving wife, mother, grandmother, sister, aunt and friend.  She will be missed by all.

Diane was an amazing friend and was tirelessly devoted to her family.  While raising a family, she worked various jobs in restaurants, nursing homes, assisted living facilities, group homes and offices.  She loved to share that at one time or another, she had worked with all 4 of her immediate family members.

Diane and her husband Cliff shared a love for travel and the classic road trip.  Taking many summer trips as a family when their children were young and continuing the tradition on their own when their children were grown.  Traveling wherever their hearts desired.  They also spent many years camping at Evergreen Camp Grounds as a family in the early years of their life together.  As empty nesters, they would regularly be found in their camper at Huckleberry Acres in New London enjoying a campfire and conversation with family and friends.  Diane and Cliff also accepted and enjoyed the challenge of seeking out the best (sometimes out of the way) Friday Fish Frys.

Diane had a variety of hobbies that changed as years passed.  They included things like yard work, crafts, reading, jigsaw puzzles, card games, word search puzzles, movies and collectibles.  She had a life-long love of the Wheel of Fortune and a knack for the puzzles.  She enjoyed solving the puzzles before the contestants.  Diane had a wonderful sense of humor and loved to laugh and make others laugh.

Diane is survived by her husband Cliff and their three daughters; Brenda (Terry) Loberger, Shannon Driessen and Tracy Olson as well as three grandchildren; Malcolm Driessen, Madison Driessen and Emily Bresee.  In addition, she is survived by three siblings; Carl (Bonnie) Vanden Heuvel, Bob (Joni) Vanden Heuvel and Barb (Vanden Heuvel) Standiford.

Diane was preceded in death by her parents in addition to three siblings; Donny Vanden Heuvel, Judy (Vanden Heuvel) Zeutzius and Gary Vanden Heuvel.

A celebration of Diane’s life will be officiated at 11 AM on Friday, July 3, 2020 at Wichmann Funeral Home, 537 N. Superior St., Appleton, WI 54911 by Rev. Peter Leschke of Christ the Rock Community Church. Family and friends may visit at the funeral home from 10 AM to the time of service, with face masks and social distancing highly encouraged.

Diane’s family would like to extend a heartfelt thank you to the staff at Encircle Health, Peabody Manor, Theda Clark Medical Center and Appleton Medical Center for their excellent care of Diane over the years.  A special thanks to the ThedaCare Hospice staff for their compassion, gentle support and guidance towards the family at such a difficult time.

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