Debra Christine Stephan

1952 - 2021

Debra Christine Stephan
Big Rapids, MI
October 23, 1952 - December 2, 2021
Big Rapids – Debra C. Stephan, 69, of Big Rapids, passed away Thursday, December 2, 2021, at her residence.
She was born October 23, 1952, in Reed City, the daughter of Joseph W. and Mary Kathleen (Baxter) Johnson, and graduated from Reed City High School in 1971. On February 24, 1973, Debra married Lonny D. Stephan, and they lived near Hawkins for most of their lives. Following his death on July 18, 2018, Debra moved into Big Rapids where she had since resided.
For many years, Debra operated a day care center in their home, helping to raise many of the Hawkins children. She also worked as a Medical Assistant for Dr. Joseph Wolschleger's office for 10 years, meeting many whom she called friends. In her spare time, Debra enjoyed craftwork, especially sewing and crocheting, and loved to go fishing with Lonny. Spending time with friends was important, because if you were her friend, you were considered family!
Debra is survived by two daughters, Christina (Shawn) Ward of Hersey, and Jennifer Rehkopf of Mt. Pleasant; 5 grandsons, Tyler, Erik, Devin, Parker, and Paris (Dana); 3 great-grandchildren, Nevaeh, Kingston, and A'Niyah; her godchildren Peyton and Ethan Henderson; 2 sisters, Laura (Bob) Hopkins of Sears, and Eva Higgins of Evart; 1 brother Michael (Debbie) Johnson of Mansfield, OH; and many nieces, nephews, and cousins.
Per Debra's request, no services are being planned. Memorial contributions in her name may be made for Toys for Tots, or Pancreatic Research Fund at 415 Crossways Park Dr. Suite D, Woodbury, NY 11797. Care and arrangements are entrusted to the Mohnke Funeral Home in Big Rapids. Share a memory or express condolences at www.mohnkefuneralhome.com.