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Deborah “Debi” Delfs, 66, of Beach Park IL, formerly of Waukegan IL, passed away suddenly at her home in Loretta WI, on Thursday, February 22, 2024. She is survived by her loving life partner Keith Pastell.
She graduated from Waukegan High School and retired from North Shore Savings and Loan after more than 20 years of dedicated service.
Debi had a special talent and an expert’s eye for finding unique vintage items at thrift stores. She delighted others with the perfect unique gifts only she could shop for and find. She curated many collections and expertly displayed them to the amazement of her family & friends. Debi was stylish and she coordinated her jewelry with her outfits flawlessly.
She loved cooking and traveling. Debi especially loved spending time with her family and is remembered for her radiant smile and beautiful laugh. She was very good with children and loved her dogs.
In addition to Keith, she is also survived by her mother Ginny Delfs; sister, Sharon (Terry) Briscoe; brothers, Steve (Jan) and Greg (Jessica) Delfs; nieces, Kainna Briscoe, Melanie Delfs, and Chelsie Delfs; nephews, Blake Delfs, Brandon Koelling, and Bryan Delfs; and several great nieces & nephews.
She is preceded in death by her father Hank Delfs.
Visitation and Service will take place on Saturday, March 2 at Gurnee Salata Funeral Home, 4190 Old Grand Ave, Gurnee, IL 60031. Visitation begins at 10:00 am. Service begins at 11:30 am. Interment follows at Ascension Cemetery in Libertyville, IL.
23 Entries
Kelly DeRosa
June 21, 2024
To my beautiful best friend in the world. We met over 33 years ago in California and we grew very close. You are the sister I never had. I love you so much, you were my everything. We never forgot one another even when you moved back to Illinois. We always kept in touch and could talk for hours over the phone. You made everyone happy with your kindness and beautiful smile. I love you Debi.

Forever Vintage sisters... love Joyce & Lori
Lorinda Murphy
April 3, 2024
Forever vintage sisters...
Love: Joyce & Lorinda
Sarah Taylor
March 24, 2024
My heart is so saddened to hear of Debi’s passing. We have known each other since working at Montgomery Wards in the 70’s. She was a ray of light with an infectious smile and laugh. I just found out today, March 24. My prayers go out to Keith, Mama Delfs and her siblings. May the Lord carry you through this difficult time.
Karen Welborn
March 2, 2024
I wish I was there with family and friends today. Honoring your memory beautiful soul.

My Debi celebrating my big 25 :)
Antuanet
March 1, 2024

My dear Debi and Antuanet and Sister Ursula
Antuanet
March 1, 2024
Antuanet
March 1, 2024
Dear Debi, I am writing twice. Pictures to remember forever :)
Antuanet
March 1, 2024
My dear friend. Treasuring with me our moments together and our friendship based on kindness, laughs and complicity. I called you home many times probably due to your move from Beach Park to WI. My mom always remembered you and asked me many times to get a hold of you to reconnect :( I will keep you in my heart forever my dear Debi.
DENEEN GRAY
February 29, 2024
This is very sad! She was a beautiful soul and will be missed by many! Prayers and Hugs to you all! Love, Deneen
Debbie Debevec
February 28, 2024
I’m sorry to read about this, may you Rest In Peace Deb
R T
February 28, 2024
by Yehuda Halevi (1075–1141)
‘Tis a fearful thing
to love what death can touch.
A fearful thing
to love, to hope, to dream, to be–
to be,
And oh, to lose.
A thing for fools, this,
And a holy thing,
a holy thing
to love.
For your life has lived in me,
your laugh once lifted me,
your word was gift to me.
To remember this brings painful joy.
‘Tis a human thing, love,
a holy thing, to love
what death has touched.
Georgia Nissen
February 27, 2024
May God bless you and your family in this time of sorrow.
Vinny Williams
February 26, 2024
To Keith...I am Very Sorry you lost your life partner. You are a graceful loving, cool guy. Just the one she needed. She loved you Deeply. I'm sure things seem empty. She filled life with love and acceptance. Reflect on the Blessing that she was to you. Be grateful and assured that the Lord will continue to watch over you and Bless you. If you ever need, you can call me anytime at 682-597-6072. Love you brother...Vince
Michelle Miller
February 25, 2024
Our deepest sympathy to Ginny, Keith and all her family. Debi had the biggest heart and kindest soul; she will be greatly missed. She always loved to coordinate her outfits and jewelry – and did an amazing job at it! Rest in peace “Cous”.
Your cousin - Michelle
Kathy Murphy-Fox
February 25, 2024
I have nothing but fond memories of Debi. She lit up a room with her smile. Rest in peace beautiful lady.
Vicki Bousson
February 25, 2024
Deepest condolences to Keith and Debi’s family. We were high school friends, unfortunately lost contact, but I will always remember her beautiful smile and how sweet she was. Rest easy, Debi!

High school
Deborah Johnson
February 25, 2024

Jr high
Deborah Johnson
February 25, 2024
Deborah Johnson
February 25, 2024
Big hugs and prayers to Ginny, Keith and family. Debi and I had great times and many years of friendship. I will cherish them always.

Gonna miss you Debi...Had fun working so many years with you! Hope you enjoy "retirement" up in heaven! See you on the other side! Hugs
Diane Cepon (DellaPosta)
February 23, 2024
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