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Diane Renstrom Obituary
May 20, 1928 ~ July 19, 2013
Mom was born in Seattle to Gene and Eunice Fiebig. Diane and her brother Gene attended Emerson Elementary School and Mom graduated from Franklin High School, class of '46. She grew up in Rainier Beach and summers were often spent at their cabin on Mercer Island. In 1947, she attended Seattle University, later to finish her degree at University of Washington class of 1963.
She met the love of her life, Ralph, in the summer of 1945 on the Seattle Waterfront. Mom was walking one way, Dad the other and the next thing Mom knew, Dad was racing back asking for a date. They were married April 9, 1949 and had three sons; Eric, Eddy and Arne.
Mom worked for the FBI for 2 years. After graduating, Mom taught 30 years in the Shoreline school district, retiring in 1994.
"MUM" will always be remembered for standing on her head as students filed in on their last day of class. She enjoyed traveling throughout the U.S., Europe and Australia.
Summers and Holidays were spent celebrating with the Alberg and Schultz families. Mom was very active with her sorority ADK. Upon retiring, she volunteered tutoring at John Rogers school, and so enjoyed being a docent at Woodland Park Zoo. She is survived by her sons Eric, Eddy and Arne (Rebecca). After 52 years of marriage, she was preceded in death by her husband, Ralph Renstrom.
In lieu of flowers, remembrances can be made to Best Friends, Seattle Audubon or Woodland park Zoo. At her request, no services will be held.
Dear Mom, we love and miss you so very much. All who knew you, loved the "twinkle" in your eyes. Sign Diane's on-line Guest Book at www.Legacy.com.
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
Memories and Condolences
for Diane Renstrom
Kristin Zimmerman
July 22, 2022
What an amazing woman Diane was. She brought love and light wherever she was and that legacy lives on through her sons and beautiful daughter in law Rebecca
Candie Leonard
January 24, 2021
I was a student teacher at Lake Forest Park Elementary, under the supervision of Diane Renstrom. I was always so thankful to have worked under Diane's supervision. She was an amazing teacher! Being a little tentative and lacking confidence in myself as a student teacher, Diane was an amazing support person. The students loved her and I also loved her. She had a unique gift with children and her passion for teaching was displayed every day!
I will always be thankful for having spent my time with one of the best 1st grade teachers that one could find!!
Love you, Diane Renstrom!
Sincerely,
Candie (student teacher)
Dawn Closs
August 5, 2013
Diane and our mom met back in the 60's when both were teaching at Cromwell Park Elementary School. That led to a friendship that lasted nearly 40 years. Diane's friendship also extended to my sister and I and she always took a sincere interest in what we were doing with our lives. We have wonderful memories of times spent on the tugboat, up at Whidbey and celebrating birthdays and other special occasions.
As our mother's health declined, Diane continued to be a part of our lives. You always knew when Diane had been by for a visit as there would be a note (written in rhyme of course), and usually some small token or keepsake-a flower or leaf, or butterfly socks! We are forever grateful for all she did for us.
Mom always called Diane a treasure and that she was. She had that twinkle in her eye and she could engage anyone-young or old. She was truly a special person and all who knew her are better for having had Diane in their lives. Rest well.
Dawn Closs and Terrill Closs Powell
Kathie T
July 31, 2013
We graduated from the same docent class at Woodland Park Zoo and I remember Diane's enthusiasm and engaging personality! It was a delight to share our passion for the Zoo.
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July 31, 2013
Diane was the true essence of what a Docent is at Woodland Park Zoo. She was a Teacher who shined with passion and shared her commitment with everyone she met. All who had contact with her were blessed. Thank you, Diane, for sharing your passion of life with us. May your family know that the circles of that love will spread indefinitely. You will forever be in our good works...and perhaps some of us will even learn to stand on our heads!
Jim & Anna Freyberg
July 31, 2013
Diane was a life long,dear friend, from back in Rainer Beach grade school, and her brother Eugene was a dear friend as well. I worked with Gene at their father's butcher shop, and over the years we have seen each other at the many grade school & hight school reunions. We always enjoyed her Christmas card every year. We will miss her and her vibrant spirit. Our deepest sympathy to the family.
With thoughts and prayers,
Jim & Anna Freyberg
Barb Peterson
July 30, 2013
One of a kind, she was. Both of my kids were lucky enough to spend their first grade year with Mrs. Renstrom, and they both loved her dearly. She was amazing with all the students and always such a fun and playful spirit. I loved the time I spent volunteering in her classroom. The world would be a better place if we all could have had a Mrs. Renstrom for our first grade teacher.
Thank you for sharing your love with our children. We will miss you, and that undeniable twinkle in your eyes.
Aaron Marshall
July 30, 2013
Diane Renstrom was one of my all time favorite teachers! I remember at the end of the year not only her doing her hand stand, but our class putting on a circus. I was the ring master! I opened by saying : "Ladies and gentlemen, welcome to the big show" putting extra emphasis on the last words. She responded with "Ooh, I like that!". She came to see me perform with the Northwest Boychoir for years and sent Christmas cards to our family consistently! I'll miss you, Mrs. R!
Julie Goldenberg Hay
July 30, 2013
Mrs. Renstrom was my first grade teacher at LFP Elementary 27 years ago. When I found out she would be my teacher, I remember feeling so lucky - she made everything fun (and all the kids respected her as well!). We had "OK" the bear (and it was a real treat if you got to bring him home), she did a caldron with dry ice at Halloween (she wore a witch hat and everything!), and of course, we couldn't wait for her to stand on her head at the end of the school year! The positive role she has played in all our lives is a true testament to this amazing woman. My love and thoughts are with the family at this difficult time.
Ron Lehman
July 30, 2013
Diane was a positive influence on our Son's life. She told him he was a writer and gave him a parting gift from her class a writing notebook which still has and uses. She was a great light in the lives of all who she touched. You will be missed but always remember and loved for your kindness and care.
Jodi Schatz (Campbell)
July 29, 2013
My favorite teacher! I will never forget you. I had Mrs. R for first and second grade at LFP (1984). I will always remember her headstands...but most of all I remember spending time in her classroom after school, reading her books while sitting on the stool at the front of the room while she organized. She would drive me home and we would talk about her favorite trees. I will never forget your sweet spirit and loving heart. Thank you!
Kacey Howell (Church)
July 29, 2013
I was lucky to have had Mrs. Renstrom as my first grade teacher 27 years ago. She had such a gregarious spirit and more energy than teachers decades younger than her. I will always remember the infamous headstand, her patience, and kindness. She made a lasting impression on the community and touched more lives than I can imagine. Sending love to her family. We love you Mrs. Renstrom.
Kristin Zimmerman
July 29, 2013
What a complete honor to know Diane. I will remember everytime she would correct me when I called her sweet, "I'm not sweet, I'm spicy" you would say with a grin. I will miss our time together. She was full of love, joy and spunk.
July 29, 2013
We were saddened to hear of your passing. We loved seeing you and your animal friends at the clinic. In our conversations, it was clear why animals loved you and I suspect why your students loved you as well. You had such compassion and happiness in you voice. Our thoughts are with your family as they remember a life well lived.
Dr. Windom, Dr. Nathanson and the staff at North Seattle Veterinary Clinic
July 28, 2013
July 28, 2013
Diane, you were the "icing on the cake"! You made everyone around you so very happy to know you, and I personally enjoyed our friendship in Shoreline schools and activities. You were a very gifted teacher and fond friend. We all shall miss you very much.
Rachel M. Lake
Retired Sno-King School Retirees
kat brown
July 28, 2013
My thoughts are with you Eddie. She was a very special lady. God bless you and the rest of your family. We love you.
Kyla McClure
July 28, 2013
My condolences to your family. I remember "Mrs. Rentstrom" and have many cherished memories. She was a fabulous teacher who inspired me. My love of reading I attribute to the energy and passion in which she taught me, 30 years ago... I never forgot her spunky spirit and many of my classmates and I are still close today because of her strength and encouragement. I will never forget walking into her classroom for her retirement party and she didn't hesitate for a second, she knew me by name. I was flabbergasted! Twenty someod years later, hundreds of students, and with out any prompting, she remembered me. She was so special, I will miss her and I know she will be in my heart forever. She was a special lady and your words of her rememberance were touching and very fitting. I wish you peace in your sorrow. Take care.
July 28, 2013
Please accept my condolences. May the family be comforted by Jesus promise at John 6:40.
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