BUXTON- Diane’s (Sieling-Taisey) Skistad’s life cannot be summed up in a few formal lines; she was a shining light whose love reached far beyond the walls of her New England home.
Born on September 5, 1948, to Fred and Marilyn Sieling, Diane built a life centered around what mattered most to her: family. She loved her sisters and brothers intensely, and her own daughters and grandchildren were her heart’s greatest joy. She was also a mother figure to many, opening her arms and her heart to anyone who needed a place to belong. Being with the people she loved—whether in Minnesota, Arizona, or Maine—was where she was happiest, especially with her beloved pup, Chip.
Diane lived with a generous spirit and a nonjudgmental, unconditional love that made others feel seen, safe, and accepted just as they were. Those who worked beside her remember her as an amazing coworker who became a treasured friend, always sharing and always concerned for others. To her friends and coworkers, Diane is remembered as someone you could laugh with until you had to wipe away tears. She showed people what real, unconditional love should feel like, and for many, the time spent with her became some of the best parts of their childhood. She was simply extraordinary.
She loved cheering for the Vikings, shopping trips to Target and Kohl’s, concerts, and country music. Christmas was especially dear to her, a season that brought together many of the things she loved most: picture-taking, giving, family, celebration, and more giving.
As a sister, mother, grandmother, and aunt, she was everything—loving and involved. The years and miles never lessened the bond; time together, whether in Minnesota, Arizona, or back home, was treasured and full of laughter and connection. She grew especially close to her nieces and nephews, encouraging family-time traditions and building memories that will be carried forward with deep gratitude. Her absence now leaves a space that words can’t quite reach, but her impact on those who loved her is immeasurable.
In her final season, Diane’s deepest wishes were honored: to be surrounded by the people who loved her and to go in peace. Those who cared for her did so with tenderness and devotion, giving her the gift of a passing held in love. For those left behind, it may feel as if the wind is blowing through a giant hole in their chest, a void that can’t be filled. Yet there is comfort in knowing she is at peace, welcomed by those who went before her, her light still shining in the lives she affected so beautifully.
Her memory lives on in the hearts of her siblings, nieces, nephews and her daughters Amanda, Becky and Laurie. She is also survived by Amanda's husband Chris and her beloved grandchildren Annika, Julia, Taylor, Audrey, Aaren and Landen. To honor her memory, you can make donations to Hospice of Southern Maine as well as Pittie Posse Rescue and Sanctuary.
Please join her family: siblings, nieces and nephews, and friends, for her Celebration of Life in Detroit Lakes, Minnesota, on Sunday, May 31, from 1-4 p.m.at the VFW, 500 Washington Avenue.
Arrangements entrusted to Chad E. Poitras Cremation and Funeral Service, Buxton
www.mainefuneral.com