Deborah Ann Pehrson

With heavy hearts, we announce the passing of Deborah “Debbie” Ann (Bosacker) Pehrson, age 72, of Waseca, MN, who passed away peacefully on April 8, 2025, surrounded by her family after courageously facing a two-year battle with pancreatic cancer.

Born on May 8, 1952, in Owatonna, MN, to Kenneth and Arlene (Raedeke) Bosacker. She was baptized on May 18, 1952 at St. Peter (Bell) Lutheran, Waterville and confirmed on April 3, 1966 at St. Paul Lutheran Church, Waseca. Debbie graduated from Waseca High School in 1970, later earning her degree from South Central College in Mankato for Sales and Marketing. On October 23, 1971, she married the love of her life, Mark Pehrson, at Christ Chapel in St. Peter, MN. The two built a beautiful life together over 54 years, raising a family and creating countless memories in Waseca, MN.

Debbie lived a life defined by unconditional love and a deep commitment to those around her. She was devoted to her family, friends, church, and community, leaving a legacy of kindness and compassion that will forever be remembered.

Debbie’s professional life was one of quiet dedication. Over the years, she held roles at Brett’s Department Store in Mankato, Waseca Collection Agency, managed Hammer's women’s clothing store in Waseca, supported payroll and accounting operations at Birds Eye Foods and at the University of Minnesota for 19 years before retiring. She valued her work and held deep gratitude for the wonderful colleagues and friendships she built throughout her career. Along the way, she and Mark owned Apple Annie's, where Debbie shared her passion for crafting and antiques with the community.

Faith was the foundation of Debbie’s life, shaping her unwavering dedication to St. Paul Lutheran Church, where she was a devoted member for 67 years. Her heartfelt contributions enriched the church community in countless ways. She sang in the choir, shared fellowship as an active member of the quilting group, served on the decorating committee, and participated in the 29ers Club. Debbie also inspired and guided young people as the head of the St. Paul Mission Team, leading mission trips across the country.

She also generously dedicated her time to community initiatives, including the Waseca United Way and founding the Waseca Wrestling Club alongside Mark.

Debbie found pleasure in walking, biking, shopping, tending to her beautiful flower garden, and adorning her home with elegant Victorian décor. A passionate antique collector, her home reflected her impeccable style and festive spirit, coming alive most brilliantly during the Christmas season.

What Debbie treasured most in life was her family. She was a devoted wife, mother, grandmother, and great-grandmother who never missed a single milestone event. Her greatest joy was spending time with her grandchildren and sharing her love of travel, taking them on unforgettable trips near and far, including a cherished family trip to Hawaii last December.

Debbie is survived by her loving husband, Mark, and their children, Troy, Trevor, Tony, and Arica. She will be deeply missed by her grandchildren Tanner (Megan), Hunter, Kenley, Ella, and Ingrid Pehrson, Mallorie and Payton Gehloff; and great-grandson, Leo Pehrson. Debbie is also survived by her siblings, Rhonda (Harold) Christianson, Brenda (Jim) Walker, and Mindi (Steve) Baker; aunt, Berness Ayers; sisters-in-law, Mary (Scott) Kreykes, Cathy Giefer, Deanna Hoffmeister; brother-in-law, Wally (Laurie) Pehrson; along with her many beloved nieces, nephews, and extended family of friends and loved ones. She was preceded in death by her parents.

Debbie’s life was a testament to love, kindness, and community spirit. Her memory will be carried forward by the countless lives she touched.

In lieu of flowers, memorials preferred to St. Paul’s Youth Mission Team.

Visitation for Debbie will be from 4 – 7 PM on Friday, April 11, 2025 at the State Street Chapel of Dennis-Steffel-Omtvedt Funeral and Cremation Service. Visitation will continue for one hour prior to the service at the church on Saturday.

Funeral service will be at 11:00 AM on Saturday, April 12, 2025 at St. Paul Lutheran Church in Waseca. The burial will be at Woodville Cemetery in Waseca.