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(1930-2017)
Sister Diane Erbacher, known also as Sister Mary Carlanne, was born in San Jose, California, on January 29, 1930. She was the oldest of three children born to Charles and Anne (Foltz) Erbacher. Her two younger brothers were Bill and Jimmy, who was born with a genetic chromosome disorder known as Down Syndrome. Her father was born in Covington, Kentucky, and her mother in Spencer, Nebraska.
The family moved several times and, as a result, Sister Diane was educated in several schools: St. Francis School in Baker, Oregon, and St. Mary School in Bedford, Oregon.
When Sister Diane was in the seventh grade at St. Mary, her family moved to Santa Cruz, California, and she finished her elementary and secondary education in Santa Cruz at Holy Cross School. This was her first contact with the Adrian Dominican Sisters, who staffed the grade school and the high school.
During her high school years, Sister Diane also worked at Sisters’ Hospital, located on West Cliff Drive. According Sister Christine Ostrowski, Sister Diane spoke fondly of her days working at the hospital and getting to know the Sisters.
Read more about Sister Diane (pdf)
Memorial gifts may be made to Adrian Dominican Sisters, 1257 East Siena Heights Drive, Adrian, Michigan, 49221. Funeral arrangements are being handled by Anderson Funeral Home, Adrian.
Leave your comments and remembrances (if you don't see the comment box below, click on the "Read More" link).
Sister Diane inspired me in education. I loved her smile and positive energy. I loved the way she greeted every child every morning. She has always been my second mom!! She will be missed!
Sister Diane was an extraordinary educator, principal and mentor. She had qualities that we all aspire to in life. It was an honor to work for her and see firsthand her love for children.Sister has a special place in my heart and will be sorely missed. 💔
Sister Diane was not only my principal, but my Three sons as well. She gave all us the best guidance, love and support any family could ever wish for. God bless her.
You will always be an irreplaceable fixture within our community and in our hearts, Sr. Diane. Rest in peace knowing you've fulfilled your work here on earth touching countless lives. You will never cease to inspire us always to strive to do our best work and be our best selves. We will miss you and look forward to reuniting with you again in Christ's Kingdom. God keep you and bless you.
Thank you sister for your years of giving of yourself to the church, the community and most importantly to all your students. There are many generations of st Brendan bears that owe their faith, their manors, their dancing and public speaking skills - to you! THANK YOU!!
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