Debbie Klein 03/30/2026

Deborah “Debbie” Klein was born and raised in St. Paul, Minnesota, on March 6, 1956, and passed away peacefully on March 30, 2026, after bravely fighting a long and difficult battle with multiple sclerosis. Despite her challenges, Debbie never wasted time complaining. Instead, she showed remarkable strength and determination, working hard as a single mother while building a meaningful life for herself and her family.

Debbie graduated from St. Paul Technical and Vocational Institute with an associate degree in Electrical Technology and was exceptionally proud to be the only woman in her male-dominated graduating class. Throughout her life, she pursued a variety of careers that reflected her versatility and strong work ethic, including working as an electrician, in customer service and sales for Comcast, and later as a blackjack dealer. Her dedication and skill led to her promotion to Pit Boss at St. Croix Casino in Turtle Lake, Wisconsin, where she worked until retiring.

Debbie had a deep love for animals and, over her lifetime, cherished many horses, dogs, and cats. She also enjoyed cooking and crafting, and she had a wonderful ability to tackle anything she set her mind to – whether or not she had done it before. She had a knack for tackling anything she put her mind to and doing it with gusto and perfection.

Early in life, Debbie had three children with her first husband: daughter Brandy Schaak (Herb), and twins Richard Wagner and Rachel Wagner. She later met and married Tim Klein, and together they shared nearly 43 years of marriage. They began their life together in St. Paul, Minnesota, and eventually found joy and peace settling into a quieter life in Wisconsin.

Debbie will be remembered most for her deep love for her family and her strong faith. What mattered most to her was that her loved ones knew Jesus and had a personal relationship with Him. She found comfort in believing she would one day be reunited with those she loved. We will all really miss her singing happy birthday every year! She sure had a voice 😉

Debbie is survived by her loving husband of nearly 43 years, Tim Klein; her children, Brandy (Herb), Richard, and Rachel; her bonus children, Christie, Michelle (Trevor), Jamie, Stephanie, and Lyndsay; her many grandchildren and great-grandchildren; her brother, Steve Fairbanks; her sisters, Karen Melton, Katie King, and Kelly King; and many nieces and nephews. She will be deeply missed by all who knew and loved her.

Family and friends are invited to join in celebrating Debbie’s life on July 25 from noon to 4:00 p.m. at the American Legion in New Richmond, Wisconsin.