HOLDEN - Diane Marie Nelson, 57, died on Sunday, December 24, 2017. Diane grew up in Holden, the daughter of Donald and Rose Nelson. She graduated from Wachusett Regional High School in 1976 and earned a degree in Economics from the University of Massachusetts in Amherst in 1981. Diane worked as a systems analyst at State Mutual Life Insurance Company (later Allmerica) from 1982 to 1998.
Despite the challenges of living with Type 1 diabetes and its many complications, Diane was an avid gardener, cook, landscaper, marathon runner, a student of modern dance and a fitness and nutrition enthusiast. Second only to her devotion to family, was her passion for dogs, sharing her life's journey with her many wonderful canine friends, always generous in her support of the Humane Society of the United States, as well as children in need through Children International. She was also an active patron of many of the area's fine restaurants. She loved nothing better than a great dinner out with family and friends.Diane leaves four sisters, Karen Nelson and her husband, Gregg Weis of Pittsburgh, PA, Linda Cobbol and her husband, George of Southington, CT, Janet Nelson and her husband, Theodore Kirousis of Spencer, and Donna Nelson-Duey and her husband, Len Duey of Northbridge; seven nieces and nephews, Eric Nelson and his wife, Tamara, Lisa Levine and her husband, Quinn Luke, Tracey Samela and her husband, David, Jason Cobbol and his wife, Melissa, Rebecca Levine, Fredric Duey and Ellen Duey. In addition, she leaves her great-nieces, Mariah, Lauren and Paige; and great-nephews, Shiloh, Hudson and Noah.The family would like to thank Tina Donahue of Home Instead for her many years of care and dedication to Diane.All are welcome to attend a memorial calling hour from 12:30 to 1:30 p.m. followed by a memorial service honoring and celebrating Diane's life at 1:30 p.m. on Friday, December 29th at the Miles Funeral Home, 1158 Main St., Holden. Burial will be private. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Humane Society of the United States, 2001 L. Street NW, Washington, DC 20037. To share a memory or offer an online condolence visit our "Guest Book"