Dianne K. Colburn

Dianne Kay (Holberg) Colburn, age 79, of La Crosse, WI, was reunited with her beloved son Joe and mother Bertha in Heaven on September 22, 2026, following a determined battle with Dementia. She was born in La Crosse, WI, on June 22, 1947, to Bertha (Birdie) and Winfred (Wiener) Holberg. 

Dianne met the love of her life, Royal Colburn, during her senior year and his junior year in high school. She would stay in the car doing Royal's homework while he delivered pizzas. We're pretty sure that is how he managed to graduate. They were married on August 26, 1967.

After marriage, she spent many years doing in-home daycare. There were always kids and toys everywhere. Weekends were spent out on the river in the houseboat. There was never a shortage of friends and family there. Many laughs and shenanigans were shared on 'Colburn's Isle'.

She will always be remembered for her love of family and, most importantly, spoiling her grandchildren. There were many years we didn't know if there was a Christmas tree behind the pile of presents for them. Then there were the family meals. She sure could cook! There was always something for everyone, and when we couldn't possibly eat another bite, she would say, "No one hardly ate anything," and then proceed to pass out Dove candy to everyone. You never left her house hungry!

Dianne's family meant the world to her. She is survived by her devoted husband of 59 years, Royal; sons Chris (Laurie) Colburn, Paul (Amy) Colburn, Mark (Dianah) Colburn, and Gary Gilbeck; grandchildren Austin (Hannah) Colburn, Kyle Colburn, Abbey Colburn, Breanna (John) Perkins-Woek, and Shadrach Gilbeck; two great-grandchildren Zedlin Colburn and Russell Colburn; sisters, Sandy (Dan) Kelly and Sharon (Steve) Boldt; and many nieces. She is preceded in death by her parents, brother, mother and father-in-law, and son, Joe. 

The family would like to thank the nurses and staff at Emplify Health and Bluffview Memory Care for their care and compassion. Your kindness to Dianne and our family was so appreciated.

A private family memorial will be held at a later date.

Cards may be sent to 2533 Western Ave, La Crosse, WI 54603

❤ "Those we love do not go away. They walk beside us every day." ❤