Diane Caroline Falkenstern, age 87, passed away on Sunday, July 5th, 2015 in Portland, Oregon.
Diane was a 4th generation Prairie County resident. She was born April 9, 1928 in Terry, Montana to Harold and Kathryn Hamlin Larsen. Her mother’s family were early settlers in Prairie County. Robert M. and Ella Campbell Hamlin were her grandparents. Mr. Hamlin was among the first County Commissioners in Prairie County. Her paternal grandfather, Louis Larsen, an immigrant from Skedsmokorset, Norway, and his wife Caroline farmed near Plevna, MT.
Diane attended Terry Public Schools and graduated in 1946. On July 2nd, 1948 she married Edwin Falkenstern in Terry. They were married for 61 years until his passing in 2009. She worked for many years as a school secretary for the Terry Schools, as a bookkeeper for the family business, Falkenstern Implement Company, and as a homemaker.
Throughout the years, Diane was active in the Hospital Guild; Ama de Casa Home Demonstration Club, Community Presbyterian Church’s Ladies Aide and also was a member of the Eastern Star and American Legion Auxiliary. She was a long time member of the Terry Community Presbyterian Church.
Diane was predeceased by her husband, Eddie Falkenstern; her parents; her step father, Ralph V. Norris; brother Gary H. Larsen; sister Kay A. Gossett; and a nephew Robin L. Larsen.
She is survived by her son, Ryen L. Falkenstern and his wife Linda of Nashua, MT; daughter Kathryn M. Falkenstern and her husband Joseph Ediger of Portland, OR; brother Robert H. Larsen of Terry, MT; sister-in-law Carol Larsen, of Terry, MT; brother-in-law Al Gossett of Mesa, AZ; and numerous nieces, nephews, and cousins.
Funeral services will be held on Monday, July 13, 2015 at 11:00 a.m. at the Community Presbyterian Church in Terry. Interment will follow in the Prairie County Cemetery. Stevenson & Sons Funeral Home of Terry is in charge of the arrangements.
Should friends desire to do so, memorials may be sent to the Terry Community Presbyterian Church, Prairie County Hospital, or Prairie County Museum.
Darlene L. Strobel says
Ryen and Kathy, I am sorry to hear of your loss. Diane was a good friend and we had many nice visits at school and church over the years. I have missed her since she has been gone. May God be with each of you. dls
Aletta Shannon says
You’re in our thoughts and prayers! Diane always had a smile on her face and time to visit. Remembering her working at the School, what a pleasant person! Sincere Sympathy,
Aletta & Randy Shannon
Cathy and Gary Kalmback says
Kathy, Ryen and families,
Your Mother was such a wonderful person! She always had a smile on her face, and I loved to visit with her! She was an icon at THS, and I only wish I could have been able to work longer with her. Rejoice in the promise of our risen Lord, knowing that she is well again and has eternal life! We will not be able to attend the service, but want you to know that you are in our thoughts and prayers!
Tom & Bernice Buckingham says
Kathy & Ryen,
May the Lord be with you in your loss. May you also feel blessed for having such a great mother.
I have fond memories of spending time at your home and going to basketball games with your parents. I also remember Twiggy…..
Bernice
Lynette Tague says
Diane was the epitome of a dedicated mother and community member. She was always so kind. May your memories of her sustain you as you grieve.
Delphine Coon says
Diane was always pleasant, nice to work with at Terry Schools. My thoughts and prayers are with you at this time. Delphine
Vicki Reukauf says
I was out of town for a week and just heard the sad news that Diane passed away. She was one of the kindest ladies I have ever known. It was always a pleasure to see her, work with her and visit with her. She put her heart into everything she did. I remember that she attended every Rainbow Girls’ meeting over numerous years and was such a dedicated worker in every one of her endeavors. Diane was truly the epitome of one of God’s most dedicated angels here on earth. I will miss her dearly, but believe that God has magnificent plans for her in eternity. May God comfort her children and loved ones.
Jeannette Larsen says
“God Bless You” Kathy, Ryen, Linda, Joe, Robert, Carol, Al and family. I just now seen the obit, I would have gone to the funeral had I known. I am so sorry for your loss, Diane was such a wonderful woman. I feel your hurt and sadness and am feeling the tears on my cheeks……. I love you all, Jeannette………..