Diane Koster Erickson

1961 - 2023

Diane Koster Erickson

June 4, 1961 ~ August 25, 2023

Bountiful, UT -On August 25th, 2023, Diane Koster Erickson, the "Queen Bee," was returned to heavenly gardens at the age of 62. Diane was born June 4, 1961 to Robert Daniel Koster and Betty Sundberg. She was the youngest of six siblings; Kathy (Rick) Irwin, Bruce (Verlynn) Koster, Becky (Randell) Zaugg, Paula Jo (Kim) Cannon, and John (Debbie) Koster. Their family was later joined by stepmother Florence Koster, stepbrother Clifford (Kristel) Law, and stepsister Debbie (Ron) Opp.

Diane's family lived in Sunset, Utah and she graduated from Clearfield High School with the class of 1979. She attended Weber State College for three years, during which time she met and fell in love with Richard L. Erickson. They were sealed for time and all eternity in the Salt Lake Temple in 1982 and added three children to their family in the years that followed.

For many years, Diane stayed home to raise their beautiful family. Their home was filled with music, laughter, and the comforting smells of freshly baked pumpkin chocolate chip cookies. She taught her children to work hard, "bee" kind, and to always "bee" good. Diane would throw herself head first into anything she wanted to learn, becoming an expert in it. Cross stitch, books, gardening, quilting, massage, and astronomy were just a few of her many interests and passions. In 1998, Diane received a certification as an Advanced Master Gardener from Utah State University. She trained for seven years under the late Peter Lassig learning garden design and worked at the world-famous Temple Square Gardens. Diane designed the prairie garden on the Conference Center roof in Salt Lake City, served as the director of "Garden Talks in the Park," and co-authored the book Temple Square Gardening (2002).

Diane was also an avid quilter and worked for eight years at Quilter's Haven designing quilts and quilt patterns. She wrapped countless loved ones and friends in warmth with over 400 quilted masterpieces.

In 2012, Diane fulfilled a life-long dream and attended the Utah College of Massage Therapy to become a Licensed Massage Therapist. Diane had a thriving private practice, Honey Bee Therapeutic Massage, where she soothed aches and brought healing with her touch. Diane lived with an open hand, sharing all her love by serving others, even complete strangers. She was constantly working on a quilt to bring joy to another. She relished in entertaining friends and loved ones in her garden oasis. Diane consistently encouraged those around her to marvel at the beautiful world that God had created for her by sharing her knowledge of plants, animals, and the heavens above.

THEIR LIFE TOGETHER

Richard and Diane were as together in their life as they were in their deaths. (see separate obituary for Richard Leon Erickson) Together they raised three children; Robert (Emily) Erickson, Melissa Erickson (DJ Gray), and Michael (Megan) Erickson. They were rewarded with nine grandchildren; Ethan, Jackson, Isaac, Lydia, Ira, Lily (deceased), George, Cynthia, and Maryella, with a tenth grandbaby on the way.

Richard's favorite job was as "Paga," an attentive and fun grandfather. Diane was the world's best "Nana," always providing back rubs and love to anyone within reach. Together they shared their love for their family with parties, visits, and thoughtful gifts.

While Diane studied family history, she learned that her ancestors were attacked by viking raiders from Scandinavia which was Richard's ancestry. From that point on Diane called Richard her viking and she was his mermaid. Their love was shown through songs, dancing, love notes, cute texts, and romantic getaways. Richard and Diane were repeatedly invited to teach marriage and family relationship classes to members of their community. Friends and family have often commented that they admired and envied the close bond and passionate love Richard and Diane shared. Their relationship is an example to all of patience, kindness, and happiness.

Richard and Diane worked together to design and build a grand oasis in their garden where both people and animals would happily spend their time. Their home was a respite from the challenges and trials of the world. One could always count on aromatherapy, chocolate, healing conversation, and overwhelming love within their four walls.

They are preceded in death by Robert Koster and Betty Sundberg (Diane's parents), Florence Koster (Diane's stepmother), Lance Erickson (Richard's younger brother), Lily Clark (granddaughter), and numerous lost pregnancies (grandchildren).

Richard and Diane are survived by the family listed in their obituaries above.

The family would like to thank the attentive physicians, nurses, and other caregivers of St. Mark's Hospital ICU who tenderly cared for each member of the family during Diane's hospitalization.

The family would also encourage anyone struggling with mental health challenges to seek help from a trusted friend or professional. Please call 988 if you feel that all may be lost. You are not alone and there is help waiting for you.

The day of remembrance for Richard and Diane is September 8th.

Reception 5:00 pm

Funeral Program at 6:00 pm.

Located at the LDS chapel

3599 S Orchard Dr, Bountiful, UT 84010

Donations can be made to the Richard and Diane Erickson Memorial Account at America First Credit Union, account #9127705 or to the Venmo account: @Melissa-Erickson-29874