Diane Derr, age 81, died on Sunday, April 7, 2024 at the Larson House Memory Care Unit Columbus WI . She was born on May 26, 1942 to William and Ruth (Schulte) Petzke in Madison, WI. Diane graduated Sun Prairie High School in 1960. She was married to Robert Derr in East Bristol on May 6, 1963.

Diane was active in the community that she surrounded herself with.  A long-time member of St. Joseph's Catholic Church and a member of Christian Mothers, Catholic Order of Forester, taught, organized and directed religious education and helped with church Fall Festivals. Also was active with coordinating  for Dane County  youth 4H and  Dane county Farmers Union.

Diane's working years were employed with  Avon, as district Manager for 25 years. Upon departure from Avon,  moved into representing a local confectionery manufacturer, followed by an enticing job of marketing sales, for regional and national hotels.  Departure from full time work into retirement, proceeded work with auctions.

Desiring the adventures of the unknown, all too often driving scenic country roads discovering a garage sale or local farm stands with unforeseen treasures.

Diane took pleasure in being outdoors and time with friends.  Summers were spent at the cottage on Wood Lake  and winters were spent in the Rio Grande Valley of South Texas.

Diane will be missed for her love and tenderness for family and adventure to find the world that exists beyond the bend in the road.

Diane is survived by her husband Bob, of Marshall; three children Jamie Derr of Marshall, Holly Derr (deceased) of Marshall and Nick (Jody) of Madison; four grandchildren Dillon, Lauren, Rachel and Tyler; two great grandchildren Michael and Leah; sister Donna Wiessinger of Deforest; brothers Duane (Pam) Petzke of Pelican Lake and Dennel (Sandy) Petzke of Wisconsin Dells; other relatives and friends. Diane is preceded in death by her parents Ruth and William Petzke and sister Doreen Kundrot.

A Memorial Mass will be held on Friday, April 19 at 11:00 A.M. with visitation beginning at 9:00 A.M. at St. Joseph Catholic Church in East Bristol. Fr. Bala Kasipogu will officiate.

A special thank you to…the staff at Larson House Memory Care Unit of Columbus and New Generations Hospice for daily care of Diane

In lieu of flowers please make donations to Alzheimer's Association Wisconsin Chapter in memory of Diane Derr

We encourage you to share your online condolences with Diane's family at jensenfuneralandcremation.com