DIANE J. BERTRAND, 66 ROCKFORD - Diane J. Bertrand, 66, of Rockford was taken home at 10:42 p.m. Monday, March 14, 2011, at SwedishAmerican Hospital, after a two year battle with ALS. Born Feb. 11, 1945, in Rockford; the daughter of Joseph G. and Rose J. (Lundquist) Carlson. Graduated from East High School, Class of 1963, where she was selected as one of four women to participate in the ROTC program; and received her bachelor's degree in education from Northern Illinois University in 1967. Married Gary R. Bertrand on Aug. 27, 1966. Diane had a passion for children and was a teacher for 30 years, 27 of which were at Rockford Christian where she taught first grade and elementary science. She had an enthusiasm for nature and all of God's creatures which inspired her to compose songs and write poems to share with her students. Diane was a member of First Evangelical Free Church, where for many years she taught a children's program called "Mouse House" as well as devoting her time to other church outreach activities such as "Kid's Club." Diane loved to travel, especially to their home in Marco Island, Fla., and their cabin on Stormy Lake Wis.; she was gifted creatively and enjoyed interior decorating. Her dedication to her students, her colleagues, family and God were unquestioned. She was a gift from God to all who knew her and her impact on the lives she touched is eternal. The legacy she has left is one of a devoted Christian, a loving mother and wife, a gifted teacher and a loyal friend. She will be dearly missed. Survived by husband, Gary; children, Heather (Mark) Bergstedt and Chad (Amy) Bertrand, both of Rockford; grandchildren, Jackson, Cali, Jameson, Ethan, Foster and Garrett; and sister, Sonja (Frank) Beach of Rockford. Predeceased by her parents. Special thanks to her dear friend, Ann Johnson for her consistent and loving care throughout this ordeal. The family would also like to impart its gratitude to the ICU nursing staff at SwedishAmerican Hospital for their sensitive and compassionate care. Memorial service at 11 a.m. Saturday, March 19, at First Evangelical Covenant Church, 316 Wood Road, with Pastor David Bates officiating. Private family burial in Arlington Memorial Park. Visitation from 4:30 to 8 p.m. Friday, March 18, in the church. Memorials may be made to the family for the Diane Bertrand Memorial Scholarship Fund. Arrangements by Olson Funeral & Cremation Services Ltd., 1001 Second Ave. To share a memory or condolence visit olsonfh.com.
Donald Timmerman
Diane Bertrand
Kathy Hein (Samuelson)
Diane was my first best friend in kindergarten Kishwaukee School. She had a beautiful smile!