Diane Nielsen

Born in Baker City, OR., to Vern and Loraine Phillips, Diane was raised in Prairie City, Oregon, where she went on to be her high school’s homecoming queen. Diane received her undergraduate degree and MBA from George Fox University. She forged a successful finance career in the education field. Oregon Gov. Ted Kulongoski tapped Diane’s expertise in 2000 when he appointed her as one of only two school district representatives to serve on a statewide panel dedicated to improving educational budgeting.

Diane loved spending time with her family. She and her daughters created lasting memories on their legendary road trips to see Barry Manilow or Neil Diamond. Diane was all about creating memories, especially when her grandchildren arrived. The beach, skiing, floating the McKenzie River were just a few of the trips she organized to shower her grandchildren with love. Her loving personality will be missed by her family and friends.

Diane is preceded in death by her parents. She is survived by her brother, Mike Phillips; daughters Tammy Nelson (Jonathan), Kristi Stutters (Grant) and Andrea Van Blaricom; grandchildren Austin and Madison Stutters and nephews Grant, Blake and Jordan Phillips.

In lieu of flowers, the family suggests that a donation be made to benefit cancer research at Providence St. Vincent Medical Foundation. A celebration of life will be held from 2-5 p.m. Sunday at Portofino restaurant, 8075 S.E. 13th Ave., Portland.