Diane Louise Bigalk
Diane Louise Bigalk passed away on Tuesday, November 29, 2022, at the age of 78, after a courageous battle with cancer.
She was born September 13, 1944, to Lester and Dorothy (Matson) Torgerson in Lanesboro, Minn. She attended and graduated from Harmony High School in 1962.
On June 24, 1964, she married Lee Bigalk at Greenfield Lutheran Church in Harmony. They resided in Mankato, Minn., prior to moving back to Harmony, where they raised their two children, Rosanne and Richard. She worked with Lee, performing day-to-day operations at Bigalk Chevrolet Co. until their retirement. After their retirement, Diane and Lee enjoyed wintering in Arizona and opening their doors to family and friends.
Diane enjoyed sewing, crocheting, knitting and embroidery. She was famous for her cakes and love of baking. Her skills were on display at many birthdays, graduations and weddings. She was also known for her rosettes and shared them at care centers and church functions in Harmony. Diane and Lee spent many hours on golf courses in Minnesota, Wisconsin and Arizona, teaching their children and grandchildren to love the game of golf. Diane was active at Greenfield Lutheran Church in Ladies Aide, Community Chest, as well as teaching Bible and Sunday School.
Diane was a loving wife, mother, grandmother, sister, and friend. Her most cherished time was spent with family and friends.
Survivors include her husband Lee of 58 years, daughter Rosanne (Steve) Casterton of Queen Creek, Ariz., son Richard (Dawn) Bigalk of Milwaukee, Wis., grandchildren Ethan (Tori), Lucas (Darryl), Garett (Sierra Jo) Casterton, Ian and Morgan Bigalk; siblings Dennis (Janelle) Torgerson, Brad Torgerson, Michelle (Orson) Guttormson and Karen James; sisters-in-law Deb Erickson and Marge Torgerson, many nieces, nephews, great-nieces, great-nephews and cousins.
Diane was preceded in death by her parents Lester and Dorothy Torgerson, father-in-law Russell, mother-in-law Ione Bigalk, brother Larry Torgerson, sisters-in-law Barb Torgerson and Virginia Bigalk, brother-in-law Jeffry “Eric” Erickson, nephew LuVerne Torgerson and a great-granddaughter, Rylee Casterton
Memorial services will be held at a later date. Lindstrom Funeral Home is assisting the family with arrangements.
Carol Hanson says
As often happens we all lost touch over the years but I recall the times when we were children and our parents Leland and Esther Matson would visit with Les and Dorothy the many family reunions and all that goes with that, Diane was always kind to us and we loved the times we spent together I recall her asking Dorothy what to do and Dorothy would tell her just put our heads together and we will think of something and so they put their heads together. and found the answer. My prayers to all her family and friends at this difficult time. Carol Hanson
Bonnie Piehn says
My condolences to your family. Diane was an extremely talented and giving person and will be missed by so many..
Vicky Tribon says
So very sorry for your loss🙏 Diane was such a gifted lady who shared her talents freely with others❤️❤️ I was fortunate to have known her and to have her as a friend❤️❤️
Holly Gossman Mccabe says
I’m so sorry to read this!! She was such a wonderful lady!! Sad to hear the news! Always enjoyed her visits while she came to see her Mom.. so sad hope she’s a peace now! Hugs to her family
James Torgerson says
So sorry for you all. My deepest sympathy. I always thought so much of her and your family.
Jim