Diane Mitchell Zettergren

Born on March 6, 1960, in St. Johnsbury, Vermont, Diane was the cherished daughter of the late William Balch Mitchell and Marcia Sanguinetti. A lifelong healer, nurturer, and advocate, Diane dedicated her life to the service of others as a licensed Occupational Therapist. Her career spanned decades and included deeply impactful work with Franciscan Home Care and Hospice, Hartford Hospital, St. Francis Hospital and other regional home care agencies. She traveled tirelessly to provide in-home rehabilitative therapy, bringing compassion and care to countless individuals and families throughout her community.

Diane earned her Bachelor of Science from the University of New Hampshire before pursuing her OT licensure, setting the foundation for a career defined by empathy, knowledge, and an unwavering commitment to others' well-being.

Proud of her Native American heritage, Diane was a devoted supporter of the Abenaki Nation of Missisquoi, Vermont. In her youth, she loved flying in her dad’s plane to visit Richard in their early years of dating. Her connection to the natural world shaped her passions—horseback riding, hiking and skiing in the White Mountains, gardening, fostering dogs, and traveling far and wide with loved ones. She especially treasured time spent at the family’s home in Southern Vermont, where memories were made and hearts were nurtured.

A spiritual soul, Diane was a Reiki Master who embraced holistic living and healing. Her gentle strength, wisdom, and warmth were guiding lights to all who knew her.

Diane is survived by her loving husband, Richard Zettergren; her son Eric Zettergren and his wife Kathleen; her daughter Julianne Thayer and her husband Raymond. She was a proud and adoring grandmother to Shae Noelle Zettergren, Raymond William Thayer, and Isla Rose Thayer. She is also survived by her brother Craig Mitchell and his wife Laura. Diane was preceded in death by her beloved brother Mark Mitchell. Diane cherished family and friends first and foremost, instilling those values in her children and grandchildren.

A celebration of Diane’s extraordinary life will be held on Saturday, September 20, 2025, at 11:00 a.m. at DellaVecchia Funeral Home, 211 North Main Street, Southington, CT. There will be no public calling hours, and interment will be private and held at the convenience of the family.

In lieu of flowers, the family kindly asks that donations in Diane's memory be made to Brindle Buddies and Friends, a non profit animal rescue group helping dogs find forever homes. Donations can be made online or checks mailed to 3231 Earl St. Reading, PA 19605 (https://www.zeffy.com/en-us/donation-form/donate-to-make-a-difference-10083).

The family asks that if you see a propeller plane in the sky to give a wave and think of Diane and Grandpa Mitchell.

To leave a message of remembrance for the family, please visit: www.DellaVecchiaSouthington.com