Obituary of Diane Sargent

Diane Sargent of Saginaw, Minn., passed away suddenly on Dec. 6, 2015 due to a pulmonary embolism. She was born in 1955 to Mary Lou and Harold Sargent and grew up on their farm outside of Antigo, Wis., along with her beloved brother Dan. Upon graduation from broadcasting school, she began a career in that field, working behind the scenes in television, primarily at WDIO-TV. However, for many years, she was recognizable as the on-air advocate for pet adoption. She championed animal rescue with her friend Kathy Plesha and was highly regarded by other animal activists - and loved by many animals too! Diane was a woman with extraordinary talent and perseverance. Early in life, she learned to knit and crochet, and play the piano. The pianist for many Duluth Playhouse productions, she then learned to tune and repair pianos, working at the Master's Piano Shop in Duluth. With her car buddies Randy Jokela and Tim Winker, she delved into car racing. She became a popular co-driver for Pro Rally races and worked with several pit crews for SCCA Road Races, traveling the country. She served as President of the Arrowhead Sports Car Club and other positions as well. Ingredients from her longtime membership in the Middle End Buying Club provided her with material for her self-taught culinary education. Predictably, she continued expanding her food repertoire, most recently with Malaysian, Thai and Japanese cuisine, learning and experimenting with her friend May Joseph. In 1995, Diane moved to a farm in Saginaw and began her passion for animal husbandry. When she realized she lacked outdoor lighting for her poultry venue, her friend Ed Jaakola taught her how to run electric wire. She formed associations with other chicken owners and one with the Goat Ladies. Her kids were goats, Norwegian Fiord horse "L'Asie", Great Pyrenees guardian dogs, including her beloved Mishka, along with other well-loved dogs and cats. Diane was smart. She researched and practiced excellent animal care. Her animal friends and acquaintances benefited from her knowledge and help, always freely given. Photography was her newest endeavor, she joined the Duluth-Superior Camera Club and predictably she was soon shooting professional grade photos of animals (of course), landscaping, tall ships and the moon. There have been several showings of her work. As an extension to her photography she was just starting her "Farm Lady" business with the help of Janey and friend Cat McKeen, this was a promising business starting with her sale of Farm Lady cards. A business she was planning on growing into different directions. Her colleagues at Channel 10 found this post-it note on her desk: "Don't cry because it's over. Smile because it happened. Dr. Seuss". Diane was predeceased by her father Harold Sargent and brother James Sargent. Diane leaves behind her mother Mary Lou Sargent; brother Dan and sister-in-law/friend Janey; nephews Eric (Holly) and Patrick Sargent. Also, longtime friend Robin Whaley and family, and a bevy of close friends, admirers and animals. CELEBRATION OF LIFE: 3 p.m. Wednesday, Dec. 16, 2015 in the Cremation Society of MN, 4100 Grand Ave., Duluth, 218-624-5200. Rev. Jerome Evavold will officiate. A gathering of family and friends will be held one hour prior to the services. Please send memorials and tributes to the animal society of your choice or do something special with animals in your corner of the world!