Deborah Carol Lien

Deborah Carol Lien was born on November 7, 1951, to Leonard and Carol Jean (Barker) Lien in Rolla, North Dakota. As a premature infant, her life’s journey began with challenges. A beloved sister and cherished daughter, Debbie was the eldest of three daughters in her family. She grew up on a farm in Sarles, ND, where she developed a deep connection to her roots. After graduating from Border Central High School in 1969, she attended beauty school and became a hairdresser.

Debbie worked in beauty salons in Bisbee and Devils Lake, ND, but it was her compassionate heart that ultimately defined her life's work. As a Certified Nursing Assistant, she dedicated herself to caring for others, later becoming a resident manager in a group home for individuals with special needs. She not only brought joy to those she cared for but fulfilled her own spirit. An unwavering faith formed the foundation of her life, and she found comfort in attending Bible studies, church services, and watching inspirational programming on television.

In 2019, seeking to be closer to her family and medical care following her father's passing, Debbie moved to Grand Forks, ND. There, she enjoyed her new apartment and the company of fellow seniors. One of her favorite pastimes was to explore local thrift stores and dollar stores. Music was another source of joy for her, and she treasured the performances by visiting singing groups at her residence. Her family also knew better than to call her during the Class B basketball tournaments. 

She is survived by two sisters: Kathie (Roger) Voth and Shelley Holmstrom, special nieces and nephews: Luke (Nicole) Voth, Jared (Sarah) Voth, Becky (Cory) Hanson, Elizabeth (Paul) Johnson, Martha (Chuck) Meranda, and numerous great nieces and nephews including: Adrianna, Lily, Hayden, Paxon, Evie, Lucie, Josiah, Thomas, Bailey, Timothy, Tyler, William, C.J. and Spencer. 

She was preceded in death by her parents Leonard and Carol Jean Lien.

After a short, unexpected hospital stay Debbie took her last breaths as the world celebrated the birth of her Lord and Savior on December 25, 2024 at Altru Hospital in Grand Forks, ND. Kathie and Shelley wish to express their sincere thanks to the staff at Altru for their compassionate care of their sister.

Funeral services will be 10:00 AM, Monday, December 30, 2024, at Korsmo Funeral Service in Moorhead, MN. Burial will be at Noon, Tuesday, December 31, 2024 at the Devils Lake Cemetery, Devils Lake, ND.