Debirah Kay Dobbs Howardson

Debirah “Debi” Kay Dobbs Howardson, 63, of Doran, MN, passed away peacefully at home on Wednesday, March 19, 2025. Arrangements have been entrusted to Joseph Vertin and Sons Funeral Home, Breckenridge, MN. 

Debi was born on July 31, 1961, in Kenosha, WI, to Eugene and Dorothy (Denson) Coelin. She embodied the true essence of a middle child in her vibrant family of nine siblings, idolizing her older siblings while adoring her younger ones. Debi had a magnetic presence, a heart as big as her family, and a knack for making everyone feel cherished and special. She shared memories and laughter with those closest to her, deeply rooting herself in the love of her family.

Debi was proud to be a part of the Class of 1979, attending both Melrose-Mindoro and West Salem High Schools, ultimately graduating from West Salem. Those school days were filled with friendships and experiences that helped shape her determined, fun-loving spirit.

Her life blossomed even further when she met Lenny Dobbs in 1980. Together, they built a family with their daughters Mikael and Shawntae and their son Johnathan, before divorcing. Debi later welcomed her son Timothy, completing the tight-knit circle she enthusiastically called her children. Debi was an unwaveringly proud mom, cheering loudly for her children's victories, no matter how small they may have seemed to others. Her love for them was boundless and fierce, a love that paved the way for her inspiring legacy of loyalty, family pride, and unconditional support.

Debi’s heart proved expansive. In 2002, she married Ambrose Howardson—a union graced with laughter and strength that carried them through until his passing in 2010. Debi found love once again in Kevin Peterson, pledging their devotion to each other in a commitment ceremony on June 1, 2013.

Debi’s life was filled with simple joys and unique passions that reflected her vibrant personality. As a loving Nana, she delighted in spending time with her first grandchild Harmony, embarking on their memorable “Banana and Banini City Bus Adventures”—special outings that showcased her playful and whimsical side. She was a devoted fan of Green Bay Packers and North Dakota Bison football, cheering with enthusiasm for her favorite teams. Karaoke and live concerts were her escape into music and celebration, and when her health permitted, she proudly crocheted everything from yarn to plastic shopping bags—a testament to her creative ingenuity. Gardening and fishing were cherished hobbies she gladly shared with her children and grandchildren, creating lasting memories rooted in love and connection. Debi’s wonderfully kooky, loving outlook on life made her unforgettable—a role model of fierce loyalty and unconditional love for family and friends. Even the smallest corners of her life were touched by her warmth and humor.

Debi is survived by her devoted children Mikael (Robert) Moe, Shawntae Dobbs, Johnathan Dobbs, and Timothy Jeske; grandchildren, Harmony Dobbs, Kadance Dobbs, Clayton Dobbs, River Marx, Rose Marie Dobbs, and Joel Dobbs; step-grandchildren, Heather (John) Storey, Heidi Moe, Hannah Moe, Robert (April) Moe, Jordan Moe, Hailey (Carson) Christensen; and step-great-grandchildren, Summer Schultz and Ella Christensen. She is also survived by her siblings- half-brother, Allen Peterson; sisters, Pamela Walgren (Dan Dooge), and Kathleen Nontelle; and brothers, David (Melissa) Coelin and Richard (Kitty) Coelin. Debi’s beloved life partner, Kevin Peterson and faithful pup, Kaydee held special places in her heart, along with her children’s fathers, Lenny Dobbs and her cherished cousin, Sharyn Jordan, who she lovingly regarded as a second mother.

Debi was preceded in death by her parents, Eugene and Dorothy Coelin; brothers, Dennis, Larry, Kim, and Randolph; and her beloved husband, Ambrose Howardson.

A Celebration of Life will be lovingly hosted by her children on Sunday, March 30, 2025, from 11:00 am to 4:00 pm, at the Roy L. Vingers American Legion Post 52, 711 6th St S, La Crosse, Wisconsin.

Debi’s family invites you to celebrate her remarkable life, not as a farewell but as a moment to honor the joy, love, and memories she shared with all of us. Please don’t think of this as goodbye—Debi is simply doing her favorite thing, “taking a nap before bedtime.”

Obituary submitted by Debi's Loving Family.