Debra L. Colson

Obituary

Debra “Deb” Lynn Colson was born on July 17, 1956, in Minneapolis, Minnesota, to Gerard and Marie (Hagen) Colson. She was baptized as an infant at Elim Covenant Church in Minneapolis and confirmed in her faith as a youth at Buffalo Evangelical Free Church in Buffalo, Minnesota. In the late 1960s, her family moved to Buffalo, where she grew up and later graduated from Buffalo High School in 1975.

After high school, Deb studied graphic design at St. Cloud Vocational Technical School and began her career working in newspaper print design. She also lived in Alaska for a year with a friend and later spent time in Texas, creating memories and friendships she treasured.

Deb eventually followed her heart into nursing, earning her LPN license and working in a variety of healthcare settings. She especially enjoyed caring for individuals with disabilities and found great fulfillment in working with the elderly. Known for her compassion and dedication, she touched many lives throughout her career before retiring in 2008.

Faith and family were the cornerstones of Deb’s life. She was a longtime member of Faith Lutheran Church in Monticello, and in 2015, she moved to Glencoe to be closer to her children and grandchildren. There, she became a member of St. John’s Lutheran Church in Plato, where her faith continued to guide her.

Deb was a devoted mother, grandmother, sister, and friend. She had a gift for listening and was always ready to share a laugh or a heartfelt conversation, often over a cup of coffee. Her love for Starbucks was fueled by her best friend, Mary Jo, who preceded her in death and whom she longed to be reunited with in heaven. Deb also enjoyed movies and documentaries and was known for her detailed reviews that made family and friends smile. Most of all, she cherished time with her grandchildren, who brought her immense pride and joy.

Deb will be remembered for her kindness, her strength, and her ability to make others feel cared for and loved. She will be deeply missed, but forever remembered in our hearts. Blessed be her memory.

She is survived by her children, Jesse Colson and Jamie (James) Krohn; her beloved grandchildren, Michael Colson, Ethan Colson, Chelsea Colson, Jordan Colson, Ashley Colson, Damien Krohn, Tristan Krohn, and Holden Krohn; her siblings, Louis Colson, Marilyn Colson, Daniel Colson, and Ruthy Colson-Schwartz; and many nieces, nephews, and friends.

She was preceded in death by her parents, Gerard and Marie Colson.

*The family would like to extend their heartfelt gratitude to the staff at Ridgeview Hospital, Moments Hospice, and the Gardens at Winsted, along with all the other caregivers who compassionately supported Deb and helped make her life more comfortable.