It is with deep sorrow that we announce the passing of Debbie A. Laufenberg, age 66, of La Motte, IA. She lived a life marked by a deep devotion to her family, unwavering love and a constant sense of caring. Her unexpected departure will leave a void that can never be filled. We will forever miss her bright smile.

Debbie was born June 13th, 1960 in Dubuque, IA to Dale and Sharon (Smith) Thul. She married Wayne Laufenberg Jr. on July 10, 1982 at St. Joseph The Worker Catholic Church, and they were happily married for 27 years until his passing in 2010.  She was the proud and loving mother to their three children, Corey, Jason and Kara. She devoted herself to her family until her youngest, Kara, started first grade. She then worked in food service for the Dubuque Community School District until she retired, where she loved seeing the children. She later met her long-time partner, Mike, whom she loved deeply.

To know her was to love her. Debbie was quick with a smile or laugh. Affectionately called “Esther” by her brother-in-law, Brian, she was the life of the party, even if she usually showed up late and left early. She had a special relationship and inside jokes with everyone she cared for. She never missed a text or card for a special occasion, and you could tell by her precise and unique penmanship, exactly where it came from. She was always just a phone call away, ready to lend a helping hand or a listening ear. She also showed her love by cooking or baking for people.

She loved spending time with Mike, being outside, camping, and often collecting rocks that were precious to her. She enjoyed motorcycle rides, had a fondness for Tigger from Winnie the Pooh, all animals, especially dogs and owls, and, of course, slot machines. Her grandchildren were extra special to her, and she treasured her time with them. Her preference for the color purple was indicative of her rich, royal character- loving, caring, perhaps a tad crazy, and always happy. The greatest lesson she shared with us is the importance of kindness and the act of showing love to one another.

We let go of a remarkable woman, a loving mother, a doting grandma, a devoted partner, and a kind soul. As we mourn her loss, we also celebrate the love, joy, and kindness that were the essence of Debbie’s being.

In her memory, please, go outside, go on a camping trip, take a motorcycle ride, drink a Pepsi, stop for dinner at Red Lobster, notice the small things, pet a dog, or if you are feeling lucky, put a couple dollars in a slot machine. I’m sure if we could hear her now, she would say, “Thanks for listening!”

She is survived by her beloved partner of 15 years, Michael Goin. Her children, Corey (Nichole), Barneveld, WI, Jason, Dubuque, IA and Kara, Clinton, IA. Her grandchildren, Kalysa, Brayden, Izabel, Kior, Makenna, Omari, Calvin, Amira. Siblings, Danny, Dennis and Donnie Thul, Kathy (Brian) Schwager. Brothers-in-law, Chris and Mark Laufenberg. Many nieces, nephews, great nieces and great nephews.

She was preceded in death by her husband Wayne, her parents Dale and Sharon Thul, her father and mother-in-law, Wayne Sr. and Geraldine and her sister-in-law Susan.

In lieu of flowers, memorials for Debbie Laufenberg may be directed to the funeral home.

Visitation will be on Tuesday, October 13th, 2026, from 9:00 a.m. to 11:00 a.m. at Leonard Funeral Home & Crematory, 2595 Rockdale Rd. A funeral service will be held at 11:00 a.m. with Deacon David Roth officiating. Burial will follow at Mount Olivet Cemetery.