LAUREL — Deborah Jean Dietrich, affectionately known as Debbie, died peacefully April 15, 2025, at the age of 71. A devoted mother, grandmother, sister and friend, Debbie lived a life filled with love, warmth and quiet strength that touched everyone who knew her. A celebration of life will be held at Faith Community Church, Laurel, June 21, at 11 a.m. Visitation will be one hour prior to the service. Born on June 18, 1953, in Kansas City, Mo., Debbie was the cherished daughter of Leo and Marilyn (Johnson) Dietrich. She graduated from Laurel High School, Laurel, in 1971, and went on to marry Douglas Witte Aug. 19, 1972. Though they later went their separate ways, Doug remained an important part of Debbie’s life story as the father of their two daughters, Megan and Amanda.

In the late 1970s, Debbie and Doug moved to Alaska, where they raised their family surrounded by the breathtaking beauty of th e wilderness — a place that perfectly matched Debbie’s love for nature, animals (especially horses), and a quiet, peaceful life. Alaska became home, and Debbie made it a place of warmth, friendship and blooming flower gardens lovingly cared for each summer.

Professionally, Debbie worked in finance, first with NAPA Auto Parts and later with the Matanuska-Susitna Borough, where she was admired for her dedication, integrity and attention to detail. She reti red with the respect and gratitude of her colleagues.

Known for her kind spirit, infectious laugh and unwavering loyalty, Debbie brought light into the lives of all who knew her. She enjoyed bowling, playing softball, golfing, traveling, and most of all, spending time with her beloved family and friends.

In 2017, Debbie returned to Nebraska, and during her final year, she moved to Paducah, Ky., to be closer to her daughter, Amanda, and her grandchildren, who brought her endless joy.

She is survived by her daughters, Megan Witte and Amanda (Witte) Collins; her son-in-law, Jay Collins; and her three grandchildren, Makayla, Brook and Colt Collins. She also leaves behind her sisters, Sharon Pederson (Bob) and Renee Saunders (Curt); her brothers, Mike Dietrich (Kim) and Aaron Dietrich; her step mother, Gretchen Dietrich; nieces and nephews, and many dear friends in both Alaska and Ne braska.

Debbie was preceded in death by her parents, Leo and Marilyn; her brother, David Dietrich; and her former husband, Doug Witte.

Her legacy of love, grace, and quiet resilience liv es on in the hearts of those she cherished.