Diemer, Julie Marie

Julie Marie Diemer

Julie Marie Diemer (Dettman) of St. Paul, MN, formerly of Madison, WI, died peacefully at her home on August 24, 2023 at the age of 67.

Born on November 23, 1955 in Dodgeville, WI, Julie and her five siblings were raised as free-range children whose Clarence Street home was well known as the rendezvous point for neighborhood kids to plot daily endeavors and participate in bygone pastimes, including Annie Annie Over, Red Rover, and the evening favorite – Kick the Can.

Shortly after her graduation from Dodgeville High School in 1973, Julie moved to Madison, WI – a city she called home for the majority of her life – and began her career as an administrative assistant. Julie met the love of her life, Jerry Diemer, while working in the Governor's office for Martin Schreiber. Julie wrapped up her career with 25 years at Flad Architects, where she served as executive assistant to three firm presidents.

Julie was widely known for her sweet tooth – whether at her home or office desk, if Julie was present, a candy dish was sure to be close-at-hand for the raiding. As an avid crocheter, her afghan throws are well known by family and friends for their craftsmanship and continued comfort. A lifelong animal lover, Julie was especially fond of her grand-dogs, Barry and Captain.

Most significantly, Julie was known for her voracious love of life and practical compassion that endeared her to almost everyone she met. She was welcoming of all, judgemental of few, and lovingly embraced by most. A surrogate mother to many, Julie was affectionately known as "Mama Diemer" by Lizzy's and Graham's friends and as "the cool aunt" to her nieces and nephews. To many more, Julie was known for her pluck, verve, humility, and hospitality – characteristics she continued to be known for following her 2022 cancer diagnosis and move to St. Paul, MN to live with her daughter Lizzy. Though Julie knew cancer would ultimately take her body, she always refused to let it take her spirit.

Julie is survived by her children, Elizabeth "Lizzy" Diemer and Graham (Kelsey) Diemer; brother Tom Dettman; sisters Doris Schmeichel, Mary Hirsch, and Patti Dettman; and many nieces and nephews.

She was preceded in death by her beloved husband of 32 years, Jerry Diemer; her parents, Herbert and Betty Dettman; her sister, Marlene Dettman who died in infancy; brother Terry Dettman; and sister-in-law Jeannie Dettman.

There will be a celebration of life held at Station 10 (754 Randolph Avenue, St. Paul, Minnesota, 55102) on Friday, September 15th from 2:30-5:30 p.m. A short service will begin at 4:45 p.m.

The family would like to express gratitude to Julie's entire care team, specifically Dr. Balkrishna Jahagirdar, Cindy Olive, and Anne Reiber who provided Julie exceptionally compassionate care.  

In lieu of flowers, the family requests those who wish to express sympathy and appreciation of Julie's life to consider making a donation to: Boys and Girls Club of Dane County/Twin Cities, Coco's Heart Dog Rescue, Health Partners Hospice, Minnesota Education Equity Partnership,  or Regions Cancer Center.