Erna Louise Diekmann

Our beautiful mother, Erna “Ernie” Diekmann, passed away peacefully on January 1st in the presence of her three children, Dee Mortellaro, Jody Yohn and Will Whitefeather. We are grateful for the strong faith in God that she instilled in us all and are comforted in knowing that she is with our Creator. She is also loved by her daughter-in-law, Hebbah Rasch, sons-in-law Mark Mortellaro and Mark Yohn, ten amazing grandchildren in Florida and Indiana -- Marissa, Zachary, Caroline, Megan, Aidan, Lily, Matteo, Sofia, Allyson and Zaku and a supportive former husband, Will Diekmann, and a foster daughter, Terry Williams. Ernie had an ever-present smile, a heart-warming laugh and lived life to its fullest. Even though she had medical struggles for the past several years, she amazed us all by persevering and pushing through. She was the bravest and strongest woman we know, the absolute best mother, grandmother and best friend. The legacy she leaves is that she was the foundation of a family full of love, summarized by the advice she gave through the years on how to be a great parent. Mom always said “just love your babies.” That she did! We thank God for the time we’ve had with her and have been blessed by many friends who have supported her and us all with prayer and well wishes. Finally, our mother was full of joy and loved to laugh. If you wish to share a memory, we don’t mind a light-hearted anecdote or funny story if you have one. Although we are grieving her loss for our sake, we are remembering her with a lot of smiles and happiness. Thank you for all for joining us in celebrating Ernie’s life! In lieu of a service, a small family gathering will be held later this month. The family wishes not to receive flowers or gifts, only photos or messages. David C. Gross Funeral Homes, Central Avenue Chapel in St. Petersburg is serving the family. Service Information