Deborah L. King

Deborah “Debbie” Lou King (Gerrits), age 68 of Appleton, WI, born on Thursday, November 3, 1955 passed on Thursday, October 31, 2024 after a long battle with M.S. Debbie was born to Vern “Grut” and Mary (Sengstock) Gerrits in Appleton, WI and was the oldest of 5 girls. She married Patrick King in April of 1988. Debbie was a trimmer operator at the Kimberly Paper Mill for over 21 years before her condition forced her retirement in 1997. Despite her disability, she never let her condition get her down. While many would find reasons to give up, she found new ways to persevere, such as learning how to write with her non-dominant hand. She began painting and crafting to make gifts for others.

Debbie had the most infectious smile and joyous giggle – both of which would immediately light up a room. She fostered many lifelong friendships and treasured the times she spent with them. She enjoyed her time with her friends, especially when Patti visited from Arizona and together, they’d take special trips around town in her van. Prior to her disability, she liked camping and tending to her garden. More than anything, though, Debbie loved her family and friends.

Debbie will be deeply missed by her sisters, Diana, Kathy (Mike), Karen (Scott), and Cheri; her best friends, Janet, Debbie, and Patti; as well as many nieces, nephews, other extended relatives, and all the other friends she’s made throughout her life.

In heaven, Debbie is reunited with her husband, Pat; her parents, Vern and Mary; as well as many aunts, uncles, and other extended relatives. 

A memorial visitation will be held for Debbie on November 20, 2024 from 10-11 AM at Wichmann Funeral Home, 537 N. Superior St, Appleton, WI 54911 with a memorial service to follow at 11 AM. Debbie will be laid to rest with her husband and her parents later that day at St. Paul Catholic Cemetery in Combined Locks, WI. In lieu of flowers, please consider making a donation to the National Multiple Sclerosis Society using the link below in honor of Debbie. 

Debbie, you truly are our sunshine. We won’t let that sunshine go away.

You finally got the “new body” you have been asking for – Happy Birthday.