Deborah A. Knauer

Deborah Ann Knauer (Orsted), age 70 of Iola, Wisconsin, passed away peacefully on July 3, 2025, at Aurora BayCare Medical Center, surrounded by her family. Born in Sturgeon Bay on December 6, 1954, to Orval and Patricia Orsted, Deb grew up in Door County and graduated from Gibraltar High School in 1973. She studied English Literature at Ripon College and went on to a fulfilling career in publishing, including years working on Deer and Deer Hunting Magazine and as a publisher for Krause Publications. 

On June 10, 1978, she married the love of her life, Tom Knauer, at St. Mary of the Lake Church in Baileys Harbor. Together, they built a life filled with laughter, partnership, and unwavering love for their son, Nick. Deb was his constant cheerleader—always ready with words of encouragement to help him chase his dreams. 

A teacher at heart, Deb generously shared her knowledge with people of all ages. She approached life’s challenges with quiet strength and was always focused on helping others before herself. 

She is survived by her husband, Tom; her son, Nick (Brittany); and her beloved granddaughters, Olivia, Tailynn, and Mia. She is also survived by her siblings, Ervin, Patty (Richard), Cliff, Michelle, Keith (Heidi), Marty, and Mark (Lori); her sisters-in-law, Kris Killoren, Marcia Rechner, and Sue Knauer; and many nieces and nephews who carry on her legacy of kindness and curiosity. 

She was preceded in death by her parents; her in-laws, Marty and Donna Knauer; her brother, Greg Orsted; and her brother-in-law, Jim Knauer. 

A celebration of Deb’s life will be held from 12 – 4 PM on Saturday, July 26, 2025 at the Sturgeon Bay Yacht Club, 600 Nautical Dr, Sturgeon Bay, WI 54235. Guests are invited to wear bright colors, bring a wildflower and share a story, a laugh, or a hug in her honor. Debbie will be laid to rest at St. Mary Cemetery in Appleton, WI at a later date.