Mary Bartholomew Diessner

Diessner, Mary Ann Bartholomew A resident of Summit Place in Eden Prairie, was born on February 13, 1922 and died on February 3, 2012. She was preceded in death by the love of her life, Karl Diessner, in 2001. They are now resting in peace together. Mary was born in Minneapolis to Claude and Ann Boran Bartholomew. The family subsequently moved to San Francisco where Mary spent most of her childhood and early adulthood. She attended Lowell High School and San Francisco State College. Following her father's early death, her family moved back to Minneapolis. Mary soon became a fashion model for Harold's and Dayton's Department Stores. Her love of high fashion helped her to become the youngest buyer for Dayton's. Mary and Karl were married in 1942 in Minneapolis. As a team, Karl built his law practice, and Mary focused on their ever growing family. Her children are all grateful for and cherish memories of our lazy summers spent at the "cabin", winter holidays shelling on Sanibel, and a close neighborhood of friends enjoying the" Fremont Frolics." Mary was a tireless, life-long volunteer. She spent 40 years volunteering at General Hospital and HCMC. She was on the Service League Board of Directors for 40 years, spending two terms as president. Mary's many contributions include securing funding and implementing a lending library, a craft cart for patients, and art for the hospital's hallways and patient rooms. She felt that art in a patient's room was part of the healing process. For all of her hours of volunteering and helping better the hospital experience for so many patients, Mary received many awards. She was most proud of being named the WCCO Good Neighbor in 1976. Mary is survived by her 4 children: Gretchen, Claudia Griesser (David), Chuck (Joan), Dennis (Barbara); ten grandchildren: Bob Biesterfeld (Beth), Bart Biesterfeld, Katy Sherman (Dan), Tracy Robinson (Steve), Brian Diessner (Gypsy Jo), Peter Diessner (Lisa), Jeremy Diessner (Alison), Jon Diessner, Danielle Diessner and Brandon Diessner, and 9 great- grandchildren. Nana will remain in our hearts forever. According to Mary's wishes, there will be a private family service. Memorials are preferred to the Service League of HCMC or a charity of your choice. www.Washburn-McReavy.com Edina Chapel 952-920-3996

Mary Bartholomew Diessner

February 5, 2012

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