Deborah Ernst

Deborah Lynn Ernst (Stumpf) 50, found her guardian angel on May 3, 2016 and then became one herself.

Deb was fiercely devoted to family and considered that the most important thing in her life. She cherished her times with family and loved and respected them all.

Deb was deeply committed to her friendships, and her friends responded with a deep attachment for her. Her boys would often joke, “There goes Mom making new friends again,” to anyone she met. She loved planning things – be it a bike ride, run, ski or party – but for her it was the comradery that mattered most, not the event. She was just as happy dropping back to encourage or teach someone as she was to lead, but woe to those who thought they could stay with her when she was motivated to go!

Although she was noted for her athleticism it was her three boys that she was most proud of. Hans, Will, and Ian were the light of her life. Even in her last days, her outpouring of love for them was overwhelming. She worried about being remembered by them, about not being able to take care of them. They warmed her heart and gave her life meaning.

Our family has been moved by the support shown to them but Deb would ask for one more thing: To look out for her boys. Help them understand, guide them when they do things wrong, but, mostly, encourage them when they do things right. Tell them about their mother and don’t let the memories of her be lost. Deb would like that.

Deb is missed by her husband Mark, her parents Roy J. and Hallie Stumpf and her sisters Mary Jean (Jim) Hujet, Barb (Dave) Withbroe and her brother Roy C. (Sarah) Stumpf. Deb will be missed by all that knew her, especially her dog Nellie.

We want to thank all those dear friends who cared for Deb in the last few weeks and the professionals at Green Bay Oncology and Unity Hospice for their tireless efforts, for leaving no stone unturned. Special thanks to Kristen Rodeheaver for her medical guidance and her devotion that went beyond just “treating” Deb these past two and half years. Special, special thanks to Sarah Stumpf, who Deb never called sister-in-law… but just sister.

There will be a memorial service at 12:00 pm Saturday May 7th, 2016 at Saint Louis Church in Dykesville and a Celebration of Deb’s Life and birthday on June 26th , but given who Deb was we invite you to gather, remember, and celebrate her life wherever you are. See www.debernst.com for June 26th celebration information and updates.