On Wednesday, July 8th, 2020, Diane Larsen passed away suddenly at the Royal Jubilee Hospital in Victoria, BC, at the age of 57. Diane was born in RCAF Station, Goose Bay, Labrador on March 15, 1963. She grew up in Lawrencetown, Annapolis County, Nova Scotia. From a very early age, she developed a passion for drawing and painting. Diane became a gifted artist; a talent she would pursue her entire life.
She earned a diploma in Graphic Arts from the Annapolis Regional Vocational School in Middleton, NS. For a few years, Diane worked at the Bridgetown Monitor and then attended the College of Geographic Sciences in Lawrencetown, graduating with a diploma in Cartography.
Diane was employed as a cartographer in Prince George for two years before moving to beautiful Victoria, where she raised her three children whom she loved dearly.
Most recently, Diane was a kind and caring art instructor at a care facility in Victoria. Multiple sclerosis forced her into early retirement; however, her spirits never dampened. She kept a positive attitude while creating lovely works of art each day. Her courage never faltered, even when recently diagnosed with pancreatic cancer.
Diane will be remembered as a loving mother, thoughtful daughter and sister, and talented artist. Through her paintings and drawings, she conveyed her love for her children and her appreciation of nature.
Diane was predeceased by her mother, Marion Daniels. She is survived by her children, son Carl Olivotto (Vancouver), daughters Yvonne Olivotto (Vancouver) and Bianca Olivotto (Victoria); father and step-mother Clemm and Phyllis Larsen (Brandon, Manitoba); sister Kathryn (Roger) Sturtevant (Bridgetown), and brother Kristofer (Lynne Bryant) Larsen (East Gore). She also leaves to mourn other relatives and dear friends from coast to coast.
Donations may be made to the Multiple Sclerosis Society, the Canadian Cancer Society, or a charity of your choice.
“Go out and paint the stars.” – Vincent van Gogh
Condolences may be offered to the family below.
McCall Gardens
19 Responses
My dear friend, Diane…I love you so much and I will hold you in my heart with my memories of the many times we spent together….my tears and smiles as I think of you will be with me always….thank you for sharing your love of your art and your love of your children with me….a window to your soul.❤️
Diane was a wonderfully peaceful person to paint with. Her talent and passion for creating works of art was inspirational. I feel fortunate to have known her for even a short time as realise she quietly contributed so much to our MS painting group.
I am so sorry to hear that we’ve lost such a precious lady. She was a great friend, mentor, and anyone who has seen her art, would be absolutely floored at her humble attitude about it.
Diane, I will remember you fondly. As Suzanne mentioned, I too hope your collection will see recognition beyond your wildest dreams.
xo
I met Diane when I joined the art group at the MS Society here in Victoria around 5 years ago. There was a group of 12 of us who painted weekly, and sometimes twice a week. When the MS Society sold the building the tight art group fragmented and we lost people for various reasons. Diane and the three of us then spent a number of years painting in different places, but always getting together once a week. When you spend that much time with someone you feel you really know them as a person. Diane was always up for a good chuckle and finding the humour in life. She loved her children so much; she was always drawing or painting one of them. We were inspired by her beautiful paintings and her commitment to art. First thing she did every morning was draw a picture. I sincerely hope she gets the recognition she deserves for her beautiful art. I will miss her so much – she was my buddy at the various craft fairs we were in over the years. A gentle, kind soul has been lost to us. I am very sad for our loss.
So shocked and heartbroken to hear about Diane. I have thought of her often throughout the years. I remember what a beautiful soul she was. One thing I learned from Diane was be who you are not who people want you to be. God has gained an angel.
We are deeply saddened to hear of Diane’s passing. She was an inspiration to many and her talents will be remember by all. The very kind sole that is now dancing with friends in heaven.
Our condolences to all the family.
Thank you all for your kind, thoughtful condolences and remembrances of Diane .
Clem,Kathy,Chris,Carl,Bianca and Yvonne I am so very sorry for your loss. I will always remember Diane as a “free spirit”! So talented, kind and loving and gone way to soon. God only takes the ones he loves the most first. RIP my friend. May you fly with the Angel’s, you’ve earned your badge! XO
Kathy and family, We send deepest condolences to you all.
Not knowing Diane but seeing how well she was loved, she will be missed.
It is very hard losing a sibling….
Take heart in knowing many are thinking of you.