Debora Malchow

Debora S. Malchow was born on November 25, 1955, in Lakefield, Minnesota, to Theodore and Leola (Hochstein) Rients. She passed away peacefully, surrounded by her family, after a courageous battle with COPD on January 5, 2026, at her home in Estherville at the age of 70.
Deb grew up in Lakefield and graduated from Lakefield High School. Following high school, she worked various jobs. One weekend while cruising the streets of Lakefield, she stopped to talk to a young man, James Malchow. The two dated for several years before being united in marriage on February 4, 1978, at St. Joseph's Catholic Church in Lakefield. They later moved to Estherville, where they raised their family.
Deb was a devoted member of St. Patrick's Catholic Church and of the Altar and Rosary Society. Throughout her life, she worked in various positions, always focused on caring for those around her. Deb had a deep passion for helping people, listening to their stories, forming connections, and making others feel truly seen. Whatever task she took on, she did with dedication and pride, and did it to the best of her ability.
Her strong work ethic and love for nurturing things were evident in her beautiful flower gardens. Deb also enjoyed finding a good bargain and loved shopping for a great deal. For more than 38 years, her favorite week of the year was the annual extended family vacation to Merrifield, Minnesota. Those cherished days were filled with campfires, stories, shared meals, fishing, and lasting memories.
Deb is survived by her loving husband, James Malchow of Estherville; her children, Sara Malchow (Reuben Williams) and Tim (Kristin) Malchow; and her grandchildren, Vienna and Everett Malchow. She is also survived by her siblings, Darlene Swanson, David (Judy) Reints, Marjean Weber, Tammy Hammerlink, and Timothy (Karen) Rients; and brother-in-law Rodney Olson; along with James' brothers and sisters.
She was preceded in death by her parents, Theodore and Leola Rients; her sisters, Sherrill Olson and Marilyn Rients; and her brother-in-laws, Garry Weber and Syd Malchow and sister-in-laws Candy, Carol, and Trudy Malchow.