Diane (DeDe) Margaret Ertz was born on January 18, 1947 in Mora, Minnesota. Her parents were Bill and Millie Engblom who had 5 daughters, with DeDe being the middle child. The family resided on a farm northwest of Rush City until 1957.

DeDe graduated with honors from Rush City High School in 1965. She played the drums in the band, sang in the choir, acted in class plays, and was a cheerleader. Being Homecoming Queen and selected for National Honor Society demonstrated how other people felt about her. She was well respected by all.

Upon graduation DeDe attended Northwest Institute of Medical Technique and became an x-ray and lab technician. She worked at the Rush City and Braham hospitals many years before moving to Blaine. There she was employed by Blaine Medical Center (now Multicare Associates) for 28 years. Of late, she worked in the coding department where she had many close friends.

She was baptized and confirmed at First Lutheran Church in Rush City. On November 6, 1965 she married Roger Ertz with whom she had two children: Lisa and Mark. Her children gave her 3 grandsons: Derek, Justin, and Dalton.

Her love of music became evident early in her life when she would play the piano like Joanne Castle. She moved on to playing classical piano until she purchased an electronic keyboard. From then on she enjoyed playing in bands and making music "just for fun" with her sisters. Many people enjoyed listening to her singing of "Patsy Cline" and other country songs.

She spoke many times of her special relationship with her sisters. They had regular outings and took trips together where laughter reigned. Her sisters were her best friends.

DeDe was preceded in death by her parents Bill and Millie Engblom and baby sister Lynn Marie.

She is survived by her children Lisa Ertz of Lexington, Mark Ertz of Pine City; grandsons, Derek, Justin, and Dalton Ertz; sister, Carol (Bern) Kirchberg of Pine City, Dolores (Ernie) Blaisdell of Mora, Patricia (Carl) Knutson of Rush City.

She was loved dearly by many nieces, nephews, and close friends.

Funeral services were held at First Evangelical Lutheran Church of Rush City on December 23, 2006 with Reverend Laurie O'Shea officiating. Music was provided by Jane Jacobson, Royce Larson, and Reverend Laurie O'Shea. Arrangements were entrusted to the Funeral and Cremation Service, Olson Chapel, Rush City, Minn.

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