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
I am shocked and saddened by Di’s passing. We were part of a close knit group while attending COGS and the laughs and hi-jinx’s have stayed with me ever since. She was a kind spirit and a great friend. Even though we hadn’t seen one another in a long time, she was a person you would never forget! My sympathies to her family. Rest in peace Di. You will be missed!
Phil and Liz Milo, Lawrencetown
It was with great sadness that our family learned of Diane’s passing. Diane was a very talented and caring person. Our thoughts and sympathy are with you all at this time.
Kathy, Kris and family, my sincere condolences as you mourn the loss of Diane. Diane and I were clasmates as well as neighbors in Lawencetown.
Carl, Yvonne and Bianca you are so blessed and although we have not met, I’m confidant that if even if a little piece of your Mom lives on wthin you, you are all truly blessed.
Although we had not connected much since graduating in 1981 I would see Marion every so often and get to date as to Diane was doing.
Rest in Peace Diane and perhaps we’ll be ‘classmates’ again someday.
I am so saddened to read this. We were classmates at Lawrencetown and Diane was such an incredible artist and amazing friend and lady. My heartfelt sympathies to all of Diane’s family..Kathy and Kris..please know she is now at peace with your mom. Hold tight to your hearts all of your wonderful memories and know she will be looking over you forever and always. Diane RIP my beautiful friend.
Kathy, Kris and Clemm; So sad to hear of Dianne’s passing. I remember her well from childhood in Chatham and family visits in Lawrencetown. She was such a talented and creative artist and kind soul. She’ll be deeply missed…….Much love, Connie
So deeply saddened to hear of Diane’s passing. I have fond memories of our small “group” having get-togethers at her house, and campfires on the beach at Cottage Cove. She had this calming way of putting things into perspective, and I always envied her unique outlook on life. My heartfelt sympathies go out to her children and family. Hold your memories close.
Our sincerest condolences to Dianes family. Rest in peace my friend❤
Carl, Yvonne, Bianca, Kathy, Kris,and Clemm, I really have no words that would encompass how I am feeling….have been feeling for the last month, since hearing of Diane’s illness. Heartbroken to have lost my best friend next to my husband…We have know each other since grade 4 and disliked each other as we had to share a desk…..but we soon became fast friends and the last almost fifty years we have been in each others lives, sharing secrets and laughs…She loved her children with so much passion….they really were her life….even though she is gone she is watching over each one of you and her love for you will never stop. Kathy, Kris and Clemm, my heart goes out to each of you. She loved you each differently… but loved you she did that you can be assured. She was an amazing friend…keeping confidences….and being honest when it was necessary. LOL She was an an incredible artist….and such a kind, gentle soul. Her sense of humor….so dry….so funny and the looks she could give would make you laugh so hard. My love goes out to you all…I wish I could take some of your pain….I lost a little piece of my heart with her passing and I just wanted to let you know how very much she was loved. You are all in our thoughts and prayers. One day at a time is all we can do at this point. Much love to you all. xoxo Dianna and Scott
My heart breaks to hear this news ..may the Pixie fairies carry you to your peaceful rest. Diane was a sweet soul ….Hugs to all the family .
I am so sorry to read about Diane’s passing. Diane and I graduated high school together in 1981. I remember how talented she was back then with her drawings. May she rest in peace!