Deborah L. Sheldon

Resided in Escanaba, MI
Died February 12, 2019

Deborah L. “Debbie” Sheldon, age 66, of Escanaba passed away on Tuesday, February 12, 2019 at the University Hospital Cleveland Medical Center in Cleveland, OH, following complications from a heart attack.

Debbie was born November 6, 1952 in Escanba, the daughter of Lloyd and Bernice (Nelson) Tuyls. She was raised in Escanaba and graduated from the Escanaba High School in 1971. Debbie worked for over 40 years as a pharmacy tech at Wilbee’s Pharmacy, the Medicine Shoppe, Escanaba Pharmacy, People’s Drug Store and Walgreen’s Pharmacy. She also worked part time at UPS and the Island Resort and Casino as a Blackjack dealer. She was a member of the Fraternal Order of Eagles Arie 1088, local horsehoe, bowling and women’s wrist wrestling leagues. She was also a member of the Delta County Women’s Pool League, serving as President for many years. Debbie enjoyed traveling, especially to Las Vegas, attending her grandchildren’s sporting events, spending time with her Wednesday night friends and shopping on QVC. She was united in marriage to Raymond Sheldon on March 6, 2000 at the Little Church of the West in Las Vegas.

Debbie is survived by her husband, Raymond of Escanaba; son, Lee DeGrand of Escanaba, step-son, Geoff (Christy) Sheldon of Evansville, IN; daughter, Sherri (Dale) Palequin of Las Vegas, step-daughters, Dena (Brian) Peterson of Amherst, NY and Catherine Sheldon of Petosky, MI; grandchildren, Briana (fiance’ Gilmore Cordilla) Sheldon, Gabrielle (Aldrich) Lagaspi, Zachary Jacob Sheldon, Nicholas DeGrand and William, Sarah and Laurel Peterson; brothers, Arnie Orzel, Mike (Joleen) Tuyls of Perronville, Ben (Sheila) Orzel of Hancock, Rodger (Donna) Orzel of Escanaba and Joe Orzel of Michigan; sister, Nancy (Thomas) Couchene of Escanaba; sister-in-laws, Helen Gutschke of Ludington, MI and Marie (Bill) Strong of Traverse City, MI, numerous nieces and nephews and step-mother, Mary Lou Tuyls of Brampton.

She was preceded in death by her parents, twin sisters, Mary and Marie Tuyls step-father, Tom Orzel, brother -in-law Bob Gutschke, brother and sister-in-law, Randy and Linda Ray.

The family will receive friends on Friday, February 22 from 2:00 PM to 6:00 PM at the Skradski Family Funeral Home in Escanaba. Funeral services will follow at 6:00 PM. A luncheon will be served at the United Steel Workers Hall on Sheridan Road in Escanaba. Debbie will be laid to rest in the Gardens of Rest Cemetery in Wells.

13 Tributes for “Deborah L. Sheldon”

    I’m so sorry to learn of Debbie’s passing. She was such a big part of our family’s life and we are so grateful for the role she played. I have many fond memories and always appreciated interest she took in us, even after we didn’t see her on a daily basis. My condolences to you all, love you Deb.

    We are deeply sorry to learn about Debbie’s passing. As you grieve, know that we are remembering her in our prayers.
    It was a pleasure to know Debbie as a friend and co-worker. She will always be in our thoughts.

    She was such a wonderful person who will be dearly missed. Love ya Deb. My condolences to her entire Family.

    Debbie has been a friend of mine since around 1970…I have so many fun memories of her, and can’t believe she’s passed away. I’m so sorry for you Sherri. My heart goes out to you and your family. I send my love and prayers.

    Ray, so sorry to hear of your loss, our thoughts are with you and your family at this sad time.

    Debbie was a good friend of mine.I have so many wonderful memories of her.She will forever remain in my heart.
    My condolences to Ray,Sherri,Lee and all her family and friends.Until we meet again,love you my friend.

    Ray we are so very sorry to hear about Deb’s sudden passing. You have our deepest sympathy.

    Joyce and Becca

    I have known Debbie since grade school. Her mom made me my first tomato soup with milk. lol Great, fun lady. My thoughts and prayers to Ray, Sherri and Lee. May God grant her eternal rest and give you all comfort knowing she is home with our Lord. I’m in Arizona so won’t be able to attend her service. Fly with the butterflies Debbie.

    So sorry to hear of Deb’s passing. She was a nice person. Haven’t seen her in years. But very sorry for family and frinds.

    Just found out today – so so so sorry. I have so many awesome memories of us growing up together. Bob will be at the funeral and I asked him to pass on my condolences. I am sure my Mom and Aunt Bernice are talking her ear off right now.. God bless you all in your time of sorrow and loss – Barb (Caswell) XXOO

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