Debora Suennen-Rickard 06/30/2026

Debora “Debbie” Marie Suennen-Rickard, age 70, of New Richmond, Wisconsin, passed away unexpectedly on June 30, 2026, at her home in New Richmond.
Debbie was born on February 10, 1956, in Rice Lake, Wisconsin, to Bernard and Kathleen Suennen. When she was two years old, her family moved to New Richmond, where she spent her childhood on the north side of town. Some of her fondest memories were made growing up in the Westview edition, where neighborhood adventures and lifelong friendships shaped her early years.
From a young age, Debbie possessed a spirit of adventure and a curiosity about the world. Family vacations out west sparked a lifelong love of travel that continued throughout her life. As a young adult, she ventured to California and explored the West Coast, and in later years she enjoyed many trips to Florida and California. One of her favorite traditions was her annual spa getaway with her daughter, Jennifer, creating treasured memories together year after year. More recently, Debbie embraced new adventures, traveling to Germany and Scotland, always eager to experience new places while appreciating the people and stories she encountered along the way.
Service to others was not simply something Debbie did, it was who she was. She was a devoted member of Kiwanis Club for over 30 years, serving in numerous leadership roles within the local club, Division, District and International, and ultimately as a District Governor. She believed deeply in strengthening her community through service, generosity, and genuine human connection. Debbie was also actively involved with the New Richmond and Stillwater Chambers of Commerce, the Friends of the New Richmond Library, the Heritage Center, Gregory’s Gift of Hope and the township Board. Whether volunteering her time, mentoring others, or quietly helping behind the scenes, Debbie made a lasting difference in countless lives.
Throughout her professional career, Debbie built relationships rooted in trust and compassion. She worked as a loan officer at First National Bank in New Richmond, branch manager at Eagle Valley Bank in Stillwater, Minnesota, and later as a compliance officer for Eagle Valley Bank in St. Croix Falls, Wisconsin. She also worked with FamilyMeans in Stillwater. Even after deciding to slow down professionally, Debbie sought meaningful ways to stay involved in the community through part-time positions with the United States Postal Service and Dadez Therapy in New Richmond. Staying connected to people was always important to her.
Above all else, Debbie’s greatest joy and proudest accomplishment was her daughter, Jennifer. She loved her unconditionally and fiercely, celebrating every milestone, offering unwavering encouragement, and standing beside her through every chapter of life. She would do anything for the people she loved, and her kindness extended far beyond her family. Debbie had a remarkable ability to make others feel seen, valued, and cared for. Her smile reached her eyes, her listening ear offered comfort without judgment, and she never missed an opportunity to celebrate someone else’s success or brighten another person’s day.
Debbie also had a deep love for animals. She cherished every pet that became part of her family and found endless joy in watching the wildlife that visited her property. Whether caring for a beloved companion or quietly observing deer, birds, and other woodland visitors, she found peace in nature and appreciated the simple beauty surrounding her home.
Debbie will be remembered for her compassionate heart, her quiet strength, her unwavering generosity, and her lifelong dedication to making her community a better place. She lived a life centered on service, kindness, and love, leaving an enduring impact on everyone fortunate enough to know her. Her legacy is not only found in the organizations she served or the work she accomplished, but in the countless lives she touched with her warmth, encouragement, and genuine care.
Debbie is survived by her beloved daughter, Jennifer Rickard; her future son-in-law, Cory Vanover; her future grandson, Dylan Vanover; her brother, Lawrence Suennen; her sister-in-law, Denise Suennen; her niece, Rebecca (Ryan) Davison; her nephew, David (Rachel) Suennen; her great-nephews, Keaton and Connor; as well as many dear friends, extended family members, and all those whose lives were enriched by knowing her.
She was preceded in death by her loving parents, Bernard and Kathleen Suennen, and by her cherished pets, Dusty, Misha, Sandy, Whitney, and Nicky, who brought her so much joy throughout the years.
Debbie’s family finds comfort in knowing that her legacy of compassion, service, and unconditional love will continue through those she inspired. She will be deeply missed, lovingly remembered, and forever carried in the hearts of those who loved her.
A visitation was held on Wednesday, July 8, 2026 from 4-8 pm with a memory sharing service at 7:30 pm at Bakken-Young Funeral & Cremation Services (728 S Knowles Ave) New Richmond, Wisconsin. Private interment in Immaculate Conception Cemetery. Arrangements are with Bakken-Young Funeral & Cremation Services.