Minneapolis, MN - Debra Marie Haessly, born September 30, 1951, passed away in her home on Saturday, August 16, succumbing to an aggressive brain tumor at the age of 73.

Deb lived a full life and it was defined by her broad experiences. It began on a small farm in Rogers, MN. The oldest of 6 children, hard work and family were things she highly valued. She graduated from Anoka High School in 1967. Then, she began to explore the world. In 1973 Deb backpacked Europe for several months. Later in life, she earned her bachelors from the University of Minnesota. She experienced life in a small town, a big city, and the suburbs. Deb was a farmer, an intellectual, and traveller.

She was very proud of her many years of work at the UofM in various roles. She also worked for Outreach for Haiti, helping to expand access to potable water for many in the country.

Deb is survived by siblings Jean Milostan, Joel Dahlheimer, Jerry Dahlheimer, Jeff Dahlheimer, and Dan Dahlheimer. She is also survived by children James Haessly, Sarah Buck (Tyler) and Joe Haessly (Brittney); grandchildren Kendra Severson and Jackson Haessly; and daughter-in-law Katie Severson. She was preceded in death by Bart Haessly and parents Harvey and Lucille Dahlheimer.

Deb only wanted the world to be a better place. She spent her life advocating for education, the betterment of those people without the opportunities afforded to others, and the advancement of all people. She was staunchly opposed to many of the positions of the current federal political administration and believed in the rights of ALL people.

A private celebration of life will be held at a later date. In lieu of flowers, the family encourages those interested to donate to PBS and/or NPR.