Debra Kent

Debra Sue (VanAlst) Kent "Deb" passed away peacefully at home on October 2nd, 2025, surrounded by her family and close family friend Charene. Deb was born March 20th, 1954 to her parents Georgia and Earl. She was the first of their children to be born at the family farm south of Onamia. She attended school in Onamia, and later met and married Fred Kent. Together they raised three wonderful children: Stacey, Brandie, and Jeramie.

The family made their home in Wahkon, MN at Kent's Resort before moving to Onamia, where they bought a hobby farm. There, Deb, enjoyed growing a garden, raising chickens, horses, and cows. Over the years she worked at several places including the Maple Products, Granny's Kitchen, Izaty's, Crystal Cabinets, Trophies, Grand Casino, Gateway, and Cedarwood.

She was a devoted mother, grandmother, great-grandmother, sister, and friend. Of all her roles in life, being 'Grandma' was her greatest joy and she was 'Grandma Deb' to more than just her grandchildren. She treasured every moment with her grandchildren and great-grandchildren, always finding ways to make each of them feel special. Her grandchildren were the true light of her life and never missed a chance to brag about them. She enjoyed doing ceramics, playing cards, paint by numbers, crocheting, baking, and spotlight adventures in her uncle John's van. Deb will always be remembered for her kindness, her love of family, her quick wit and sarcasm, and the joy she brought to all who knew her. Her legacy of love, laughter, and family will continue to live on in the hearts of all who loved her.

She is survived by her three children Stacey (Duane) Phillips, Brandie (Mike) Dahl, and Jeramie (Mandy) all of Onamia; her grandchildren Amanda (Nate) Willis, Jordan (Sam) Dahl, Erica (Bryon) Nelson, Tim (Morgan) Kent, Amber (Michael) Johnson, Jenna (Josh) Straka, Alex (Kathleen) Dahl, Joey (Mallory) Phillips, Jake (Faith) Kent, Payton (McKenzie) Kent. Deb was also blessed with many great-grandchildren: Camden, Carter, Savannah, Aubrilynn, Desmond, Zander, Bentley, Addison Diane, Braxton, Brayden, Aubrey, Addison Rae, Haiden, Mason, Brooke, Greyson, Eloise, and Paisley. She is also survived by her siblings Ginger, Marlene, Carol, Laverne, Jim, Dwayne, Ronda, Doug, and Ed.

Deb was preceded in death by her parents Earl and Georgia VanAlst; her brothers Dennis, Tom, Dave, and sisters Diana and Janice.

Her Family will be hosting a Celebration of Life Saturday October 25th at Cedarwood Family Restaurant from 2-6 PM 515 Main Street Onamia.

Floral Arrangements made with Sunshine Flower Shop 523 Main Street Onamia 532- 4132.