Dianna Lee Brusven

Dianna’s memorial service will be livestreamed and viewable below on Friday, September 5, 2025 at 10:00AM.

Dianna Lee Brusven, age 78, of Moorhead, Minnesota, passed away on September 1, 2025 at St. Catherine nursing home.

She was born on June 21, 1947 in Fergus Falls, Minnesota to Charles and Ethel Paler. From an early age, she had a natural closeness with her father, often saying she was his “left hand” because she seemed to know just what he needed. She worked outside alongside him most of the time, recalling that she “hardly ever helped Mom.” In 1960, when her father built the family’s new home, she was thrilled to have her own bedroom—no more bunkbeds.

Her childhood was filled with cherished memories: the Christmas when she received a red wagon with a big panda bear, only to accidentally leave it outside in the rain; braiding twine into halters for her calf and proudly leading it around; and having her California friend visit for several days, when her mother made root beer floats from Kool-Aid. Holidays were often spent with her Uncle Arnold, Aunt Ireta, and cousin Carol, while Memorial Day traditions included visiting the Paler gravesite and gathering for a potluck picnic at the lake—a reunion with as many relatives as could come.

She attended Rothsay High School and rode the bus each day. On weekends, she and her girlfriends would “tool around” Fergus Falls, creating memories of laughter and friendship. She didn’t date much, but she always cherished those bonds. Summers were spent mowing hay and working on the soil bank land after the great flood of 1955 had covered their porch steps with water. She vividly remembered her brother repeating, “Man the water!” Despite the hardships, she always looked forward to school each fall.

After high school, she pursued higher education at MSU for two quarters before working as a training dental assistant. In the fall of 1966, she attended Ellendale College, which later became a branch of the University of North Dakota. Living near her cousin Lloyd Dean and his wife Marie, she was supported by family—Lloyd teaching at the college and Marie teaching at the elementary school. She graduated with a Bachelor of Science degree.

During this time, she also began corresponding with Karol. Their relationship faced a brief separation after two years, but their love proved enduring, rekindling just three months later. They married on June 10, 1969. This was the beginning of a lifelong partnership built on love, resilience, and determination.

Her true calling was teaching. For over 30 years, she taught 2nd grade and Title I Reading, finding special joy in helping students who struggled with reading gain confidence and skills. The Title I program was a passion for her, and she poured her heart into each student’s success. In the last five years of her career, she proudly achieved her Master’s degree in Education, a testament to her lifelong love of learning. Even after retiring, her heart for teaching continued—she served as a substitute teacher for many years, delighting in being a “lifesaver” for teachers and schools, and cherishing the chance to remain connected with students and classrooms.

Faith was a grounding presence in her life. She was a lifelong Lutheran and attended church regularly with her family. She also gave of her time in many ways, serving as treasurer for Delta Kappa Gamma for several years, and volunteering as a Girl Scout leader, helping guide and encourage young girls in their growth.

She is survived by her husband Karol Brusven; her two children, Tom (Sherry) Brusven, Jennie (Chad) Cornell; three grandchildren, Matthew Cease, Anna Cease, & Sadie Cornell; her brother Charles Paler, Jr; and four nephews, and five nieces.

Visitation will begin at 9:00 a.m., followed by a memorial service at 10:00 a.m. on Friday, September 5, 2025, at Boulger Funeral Home. The service will be officiated by Pastor Randy Whitehead of New Life Church in Rothsay, MN.

The family wishes to extend their deepest gratitude to the many caregivers, nursing home staff, and hospice team who provided such compassionate care to Mom.