Debbie Mickelson

Debra J. Mickelson, 72, passed away Thursday, August 6, 2026, at her home in Dalton, Mn. A private family service will be held at a later date. Burial at Hjerdahl Cemetery.

Debbie was born July 5, 1954, in Princeton, MN, to parents Betty and Donald Howard. She graduated from St. Cloud Tech High School before continuing her education at St. Cloud State University. After earning her Bachelor’s degree in social work, she took her first job in Elbow Lake. It was in Elbow Lake she met the love of her life, Keith Mickelson. On September 27, 1980, they were united in marriage. Together, they raised two wonderful children, Kari and Troy, who became the center of their world.

After marriage, Debbie began working for Douglas County Social Services as a Developmental Disabilities Case Manager. She was a strong advocate for people with disabilities both at, and outside of, her work. Debbie worked for Douglas County for 35 years before her retirement. Debbie was a member of the Ten Mile Lake Ladies. She enjoyed going on walks with them, playing Bunco, and having luncheons.

Debbie's greatest joy was her family. She loved doing activities and spending time with them. She was always happy to play with her kids when they were young, a tradition she continued with her grandchildren. Whether it be tea parties and dress-up, digging in dirt, or even going tubing every year, there was no game she wouldn’t play with her grandkids. Debbie talked to her family every day, and considered a best friend to her kids and grandchildren.

She was kind, thoughtful, and the definition of selfless. While she was usually mild mannered, she loved fiercely. She put her tenacity and strong will to good use to defend those she loved.

Debbie is preceded in death by her loving husband, Keith; parents, Betty and Donald Howard; and parents-in-law, Elvin and Ivonne Mickelson. She is survived by her children Kari (Tom) House of Evansville and Troy (Emily) Mickelson of Elbow Lake; siblings, Mary Jo Howard, Mark (Gayle) Howard, and Julie (Dean) Wall; siblings-in-law, Frank (Ethel) Mickelson and Betty Mickelson; eight grandchildren, Drew, Robbie, Ben, Ella, Andie, Faith, Lilly, and Mimmy; one great-grandchild, Bentley; her four-legged friend, Tootsie; and numerous family and friends.

Debbie was a shining light in the lives of many and will be missed by all. She was a Dear Darling Mom, Grandma, Great-Grandma, and Friend. Blessed be the memory of Debbie Mickelson.

Arrangements by Erickson-Smith Funeral Home.