Bloomington - 85, of Edina / Independence / Bloomington, died May 28th, 2026, at Founder's Ridge. She was born on April 14th, 1941, to Oscar and Lenore Carlson in Cambridge, Minnesota. Diane is one of five children; her sister (Karin) and three brothers (Stanley, Paul & Charles). Diane attended Cambridge Highschool, Bethel University and graduated from the University of MN Duluth, with a degree in Education. She married Bruce Johnson and they had two children, Derek and Grant.

In 1976, God connected her with the love of her life, David Appelhof and they enjoyed 49 years of marriage together. Dave's two children, Greg and Lee completed the blended family.

Diane loved teaching her students as an elementary teacher in Roseville and Apple Valley. Diane was blessed by two long term friend groups. "The Club" included 5 of her teaching colleagues. They met regularly for more than 60 years. The second group included women from Christ Presbyterian Church who met regularly for breakfast for over 45 years.

Diane loved to sew, knit and sing in various choirs. She had a great passion for the outdoors enjoying skiing, tennis, long walks and gardening. She had a gift for hospitality making her home welcoming and beautiful. Her greatest joy was family and spending time with her grandkids. Her grandkids all have lasting memories of: hand knit sweaters, special games, story time, picture books and bedtime prayers.

Diane is survived by her sister Karin McKinney, her brother Paul (Becky) Carlson, her husband David, her son's Derek Johnson, Grant (Michelle) Johnson, David's son Greg (Lisa) Appelhof, David's Daughter Lee (Mark) Earle. Twelve Grandchildren: Wesley, Jackie, Blake, Ryan, Annie, Ben, Cooper, Blake, Kylie, Madelyn, Dylan & Evelyn. Four Great Grandchildren: Aiden, Oliver, Easton & Marilyn.

She was preceded in death by her parents Oscar & Lenore, brother's Stanley & Charles.

Funeral services will be Thursday, June 18th, 2026 - 11am at Christ Presbyterian Church in Edina, MN. A second gathering will be held on Friday, June 19th, 2026 - 10am at Leader in Cambridge, MN with a burial service at noon at North Isanti Baptist Church, Isanti, MN.

The family has asked that Memorial Contributions be made to the Presbyterian Homes Foundation 2845 Hamline Ave. N, Ste. 200, Roseville, MN 55113.