What is your first memory of Martha? Share a favorite memory you have of Martha. Tell us about a special moment you shared with Martha. Describe a time when Martha made you laugh or smile. What is something you will always remember about Martha? Talk about a shared experience you had with Martha. What is something you did together that you enjoyed? Describe a place or activity that reminds you of Martha. Tell us about a personal story or anecdote involving Martha. What is something you learned from Martha?

Peacefully and comforted by her sons, Martha Diane Osburnsen passed to eternal life on January 24, 2024 at Presbyterian Manor in Kansas. As cancer and heart disease survivor, Diane’s strong will blessed us with 80 years of angelic life before succumbing to the demise of Alzheimer’s dementia.

Diane was born on June 12, 1943, in Broken Bow, Nebraska, the first of three children to Laurence and Winifred (Bickle) Osburnsen. Shortly thereafter, the family moved to Montana, where she received early education in Missoula, graduating from Butte High School in 1961, before attending Montana State University to complete her Bachelor of Science in Nursing degree in 1965.

Diane’s divine approach to life is characterized by the motto: “Mucho Amor!” Translated as MUCH LOVE, it is what made her thrive in prosperity and defined her whole life journey. Those who knew Diane, whether meeting her for the first time or lifelong friend, were gratefully impacted by her beautiful soul, compassion and peaceful wisdom that she bestowed on all who crossed her path. Truly an angel that will forever live in our hearts.

Diane will be lovingly remembered and missed by her sons: Shane and Scott Reese and Grandchildren: Heather, Adeline, Max and Alania who brought so much joy to their “Grama Papa”. She is survived by her sister Linda Gwiazdon and extended family of nephews, nieces, cousins and long, long list of forgotten souls she adopted along her life’s journey.

From the mountains of Montana to the beaches of Southern California & Mexico, from pilot wings and travel fascination to cowboy chaps and Native American spirits, Diane loved people and places just the same—unconditionally with unwavering equity, love, respect, and nurturing joy! For that, her earthly presence will be missed dearly, yet her loving spirit lives eternally within us.

In lieu of memorial services, Diane’s life celebration will be hosted at Osburnsen family house on Flathead Lake, Montana later this summer. Details forthcoming.

Memorial donations may be made in M. Diane Osburnsen’s name to Habitat for Humanity of Missoula (habitatmissoula.org). Instead of flowers please consider memorial trees representing longevity, peace and much love for all.

To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.

Funeral Services Provided By

Petersen Family Funeral Home - Newton

215 N. Main, Newton, KS 67114