Debra M. "Deb" Woodworth

Deb Woodworth passed away at 9:00 pm on Thursday March 5, 2015 at St. Elizabeth Hospital from complications due to cancer. John, her husband of 42 years, was by her side. Deb is survived by her husband John, and children Mike (Rebecca) and Ani. To say they were the center of her universe would be an understatement. She is further survived by nieces Katie Klis Wick, Sara Klis Boe; nephews Steve Klis, Dan Klis, their families and her aunt, Emily Bronk.

Deb was born in Winona, Minnesota on August 24, 1951. Her parents, Mary Bronk Fakler and Ed L. Fakler always assured her that she was a very welcome addition despite their ages of 42 and 52. Deb was also led to believe her only sibling, Marilyn Fakler Klis, worshipped her and never felt dethroned after reigning as the household princess for 17 years.

Deb graduated from the University of Minnesota in 1973 with a degree in Home Economics. She received a Master's of Science in Counseling from the University of Wisconsin Oshkosh in 2003. Deb was inducted into the Phi Theta Kappa Honor Society in 2009.

After relocating to Appleton in 1984, Deb was hired at the Fox Valley Technical College part time in the continuing education department, later moving to the college's foundation. She retired in December 2013 as Scholarship Director. It was through her work in community outreach that she built a vast network of friends and acquaintances in the Fox Valley.

She volunteered with the United Way, sitting on a committee for basic needs and self-sufficiency impact funding. She enjoyed her “fun” bridge and bookmark player groups. Her hobbies included needle point, gardening, cooking, jig saw puzzles, and shopping for deals. She loved taking walks and meticulously reading menus. Her Christmas cookies were unrivaled.

The memorial service for Deb will be at 2:00 pm on Saturday March 14, 2015 at FIRST CONGREGATIONAL UNITED CHURCH OF CHRIST, 724 E. South River Street, Appleton. Rev. Jane B. Anderson will be officiating. The family will receive friends and family from 12:00 pm until 2:00 pm. In lieu of flowers, please direct gifts to: Deb Woodworth Scholarship, FVTC Foundation, PO Box 2277, Appleton, WI 54912-2277. Online condolences can be offered at www.wichmannfargo.com.