Monika Anne Debrakeleer

Monika Anne DeBrakeleer passed away on January 15, 2024, in Santa Cruz, California. She was born on November 26, 1943, in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, and was an adventurous, free spirit who lived a life full of travel, exploration, and curiosity.

Monika loved the arts, and early in her life she enjoyed photography. In later years, she focused on caustic art, creating works known for their rich, vibrant colors—an expression that reflected the beauty and depth of her own life. She had a keen eye for design and a deep appreciation for aesthetic detail, qualities that showed up not only in her art, but also in the spaces she nurtured.

Monika was also an activist who spoke her mind about the events of the day and stood up for what she believed in. One of her favorite memories was from the time she lived in England, when she protested the replacement of glass bottles with plastic—an early reflection of her strong environmental conscience and willingness to take action.

For more than 30 years, Monika made her home in Portland, Oregon, where she found special joy in gardening. She loved tending her garden and was active in planting trees throughout her adopted city, leaving a living legacy of care and renewal. Her generosity was equally heartfelt and practical: she made socks and distributed them—along with perishables—to people experiencing homelessness and to elderly neighbors when winter cold became unbearable.

Monika married Allen Graessle, who worked for Pan American, and together they had two children, Nathaniel and Brett. Later in life, Monika moved to be with family in Capitola. Though her time there was short, it was a beautiful chapter filled with closeness and love.

Monika is survived by her children, Nathaniel and Brett; seven grandchildren; and her sister, Willie.