Debra Sue "Debbie" Aslakson's Obituary
Debra Sue "Debbie" Aslakson, age 70, passed away Thursday, January 17, 2025 at her home. She was born January 30, 1954 in Muskegon to James C. and Shirley J. (Berkshire) Knevitt and was a lifelong resident of the area. Debbie married David Lee Aslakson in Muskegon on August 15, 1975. A woman of remarkable creativity and warmth, Debbie transformed spaces and touched lives through both her artistic pursuits and her gift for connecting with others. She had a special ability to recognize moments when others needed comfort, offering quiet gestures of empathy that meant so much to those around her. Early in her career, she shaped young lives as a teacher's aide in preschool and kindergarten classrooms at Our Redeemer Lutheran School, where her natural empathy and patience made her a beloved presence. She later earned a degree in Interior Design at Baker College and worked as an Interior Designer for Vaandering Draperies and Blinds until her retirement in 2002, where she specialized in designing and installing custom window treatments. Her artistic spirit extended far beyond her professional work - her oil paintings now grace the walls of her loved ones' homes, serving as lasting reminders of her talent and loving presence. Despite facing lifelong health challenges, Debbie lived with determination and grace, supported by her beloved service dogs, Jade and later Bliss, who helped her maintain her independence by assisting with daily tasks. Her creative energy found expression in numerous forms: she was an accomplished seamstress, craft maker, and flower arranger who took particular joy in creating unique, handmade gifts for those she loved. Following in her mother's footsteps, Debbie became an avid doll collector after her children left home, finding special delight in both modern doll designs and nostalgic pieces from her youth. She was an active member of the "Sand Doll-ers" Club. Her faith was expressed through her membership at Trinity Lutheran Church, and during her years at Our Redeemer Lutheran Church, she shared her musical gifts through participation in their Bell Choir. Survivors include her loving husband of 49 years, Dave Aslakson; 2 children, Elizabeth (Michael) Case, Adam (Amber) Aslakson; 2 grandchildren, Aaron Aslakson, Audrey Aslakson; 2 brothers, Michael (Janet) Knevitt, Bruce (Rodelyn) Knevitt; 1 sister, Vicki (James) Savage; 2 aunts, Betty Swoveland, Nancy Kranick; 1 uncle, Robert Knevitt; and her service dog, "Bliss". Debbie was preceded in death by her parents, her stepfather, Stan Gabrielson; and her service dog, "Jade". A Funeral Service will be held 11:00 AM Friday, January 24, 2025 at Trinity Lutheran Church, 3225 Roosevelt Road, Roosevelt Park, MI 49441, with Pastor Paul Appold officiating. Visitation will be held 4-7 PM Thursday at The Lee Chapel of Sytsema Funeral & Cremation Services, 6291 Harvey St, Norton Shores, MI 49444. Visitation will also be held one hour prior to the service on Friday at the church. Memorial Contributions in lieu of flowers may be directed to the Children’s Ministry at Trinity Lutheran Church, the Pulmonary Hypertension Association or Paws with a Cause. Sign the online guestbook at http://www.sytsemafh.com
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