Debra A. “Debbie” Labs age 64 of Downing passed away on Monday December 7, 2015 at her home surrounded by her family.

Debbie was born September 26, 1951 in Stanley, WI.  She was the daughter of Max and Delores (Baldeschwiler) Baertlein.  To her family Debbie was a selfless and compassionate mother, daughter, sister, aunt, friend; these values she used throughout career.

Her career was focused between two industries-insurance and food manufacturing.  She was employed by ConAgra foods for 33 years.  Along with her service to ConAgra Foods she also found time to represent ConAgra Food in a number of community sponsored events.  One passion was community involvement.  She served as President of the Board of Directors of the Greater Menomonie Area Chamber of Commerce, President of the Board of Directors of Main Street of Menomonie, Inc., Committee Member for the Winterdaze parade event sponsored by Main Street, Board Member and Treasurer of the Community Foundation of Dunn County and Founder and Vice Chair of the Women’s Giving Circle of Dunn County.  Debbie was always willing to lend a hand whenever needed.  She believed when a group of people came together to share themselves, their resources and ideas, they could accomplish any goal.

Debbie is survived by her two children, Amy J. (Gary) Willard of St. Paul, MN, Joshua W. Labs of Chippewa Falls; her parents Max and Delores Baertlein, a brother John M. (Kim) Baertlein, sisters, Julie M. Majewski and Pam J. (Stuart) Kolb and numerous nieces and nephews.

Debbie has asked that in lieu of flowers a donation be made to the Women’s Giving Circle of Dunn County through the Community Foundation of Dunn County, www.cfdunncounty.org.

A Celebration of Debbie’s life will be held from 4:00 to 7:00 PM Monday December 14, 2015 at the Rhiel Funeral Home & Cremation Services in Menomonie.

.

Condolences

1. Theresa Meyers December 18, 2015, at 12:56pm

   I can't believe that someone so full of life is gone. I just found out today. I'm so sorry to hear of Debbie's passing. She was such a giving person. The community will certainly miss her light.
   God Bless her family...

2. Michael Fairchild December 15, 2015, at 9:15am

   I am sorry to hear of Debbie's passing. She came to see me a couple of times recently and she was dealing with her illness with all the grace and consideration I have come to expect from her. She and I served on the Main Street Board [she was the president] and I encountered her in other contexts. A marvelous giving person who was a joy and asset to all those she met. I will miss her.

3. Ruth Ann (Curry) Parent December 14, 2015, at 11:24pm

   I would like to offer my condolences to the family. Debbie was my classmate. Even though we were not close friends, I always enjoyed speaking to her whenever we saw each other. She was very special.

4. Clyde E Smith December 11, 2015, at 3:33pm

   Max & Delores. So sorry to hear of your Loss. My Prayers and Thoughts are with all of You.

5. Latacia December 11, 2015, at 9:52am

   Deb was such a joyous delight of beauty and love to all those able to bask in her light! I will miss her laugh, smile, and kindness. Prayers are sent to you all-

6. James Klatt December 11, 2015, at 6:06am

   I am so sorry to learn of Debra/s death. I did not see her a lot but I when I did I always found her to be a wonderful person. It has been a long time since I have seen the rest of her family but remember getting together with Max and Deloris & family many years ago. Clarice passed away in 2008 after living with Alzheimer's for some time and my daughter Diane passed away in 2012 with cancer. I spend the winters in Florida and the summers in Menomonie. Thinking of you. James

7. Jon Kolb December 10, 2015, at 9:33am

   Hi Pam,
   I'm not sure we'll make it over for the funeral. Please know that you are in our thoughts and prayers. I think it's wonderful how you took care of your sister.
   Mary Jo and Jon Kolb

8. Dale S Hammond December 9, 2015, at 11:42am

   I extend my deepest sympathy for the loss of Deb. I remember her for her dedication and accomplishments to any projects she tackled. besa

9. Leanne Porter December 9, 2015, at 9:02am

   I worked with Debbie for many years. She was a dedicated hard working women at ConAgra foods. She was also a friend. My God hold her in the Palm of his hand. My deepest Sympathy to the family. Leanne Porter

10. Kim Porter December 9, 2015, at 8:13am

    Debbie's leadership and guidance helped so many in this community. She was an inspiration, a great friend, and will truly be missed.

11. Audrey Beguhn December 8, 2015, at 8:51pm

    Sorry to hear of your loss. I worked with Debbie at Con Agra Foods. She was a very special person,she will be fondly remembered by everyone who know her.

12. Mike and sharon Grutt December 8, 2015, at 8:10pm

    Deb was a great friend and she will be missed.

View More Posts ( # )