Diane Ericson

Ericson, Diane age 55, of Rogers, offered a final life lesson to family and friends on April 5, teaching us to accept both joy and heartbreak with strength, dignity, and irrepressible good humor. A St. Louis Park native, Diane bonded with her childhood sweetheart to weave what she called "a perfect life" in Milwaukee, Plymouth, and Rogers. To followers of her "Baskets From the Heart" studio, she was a weaver of national stature, exhibiting at the Edina Art Fair and other local shows as well as the Minnesota History Museum and the Textile Center in Minneapolis. To students and colleagues of the Minnesota Basket Weavers Guild, she was a tireless promoter of her craft, opening her home and teaching at local community colleges, Gustavus Adolphus, and workshops in other states. To dear friends across the country, she was the centerpiece of scheduled gatherings, a constant companion with a laugh to warm any room. And to an extended family that will always cherish her, she was the glue at holiday gatherings and events, building memories that will span generations and time. Survived by beloved husband Don of 33 years. Also survived by parents Kenneth and Shirley Bartes; siblings Gary Bartes (Pam; daughters Jessica Ciko, Katie, Bailey) and Pam Ihle (Glen); mother-in-law Marilyn Ericson (Jim, 1928-2004); brothers-in-law Dave Ericson (Rita; children Anne and Mark), Dick Ericson (Lee Ann Murphy; children Ashley and Matt), and Eric Martinson (son James); and numerous other family and friends. A Memorial Service will be held 1PM Saturday April 10, 2010, at Peace Presbyterian Church, 7624 Cedar Lake Road, St. Louis Park, MN. Memorials addressed to Don Ericson will fund a commemorative program at the Sievers School of Fiber Arts in Door County WI.

Published on April 7, 2010