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Deborah Knutson Obituary
Deborah Kay Knutson of Seattle, WA passed away on Friday, December 30, 2016 after a courageous battle with Multiple System Atrophy (MSA) with her family by her side.
A memorial service is scheduled for Saturday, January 28, 2017 (2:00 pm) at the University Congregational United Church of Christ, 4515 16th Ave NE, Seattle, followed by a reception.
Debby was born March 13, 1954 to Maurice and Lyla Knutson in Crookston MN. Debby graduated from Portland State University and the University of Washington, and spent much of her professional career in the field of economic development including the President and CEO of the Snohomish County Economic Development Council.
Debby is survived by her husband Michael Williams of 33 years, daughter Erin Williams, son Garret Williams (son Anton who preceded her in death) Brothers Brian and Bruce (Barbara) Knutson, and Sister Brenda (Dean) Felber, many cousins, nieces and nephews.
Debby enjoyed travel (to sunny and hot places) with family and friends throughout the USA and other countries.
In lieu of flowers, memorials may be donation to the Deborah Knutson Research Fund at the Multiple System Atrophy Coalition 9935-D Rea Road, #212, Charlotte, NC 28277.
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
Memories and Condolences
for Deborah Knutson
Sponsored by The Family.
Arlene Strong
January 2, 2023
I will always remember her sweet smile and her grit. Arlene Strong
Maureen Takaoka
January 28, 2017
Deborah, you will be missed and remembered ever so fondly for your wit, compassion, diplomacy, and integrity. You left an enormous footprint and made this world a better place. Thank you!
Russ Crandall
January 27, 2017
The warmth of Deborah's smile and personality will be cherished always.
My deepest sympathies to Mike,Erin and Garret.
Erin Williams
January 19, 2017
I am missing you always momma. Thank you for 31 years of incredible memories.
Angie Brown
January 15, 2017
Debby, my dearest pen friend,I have so many wonderful cherished memories of you and our ever long lasting friendship since we were 14 years of age, through our letters and postcards we exchanged and the times we were able to meet up in either England or America.
Thank you for your friendship, you will always be in my heart
Sending all my love to Mike, Erin and Garret
Jim Nunn
January 11, 2017
I have lost a courageous, long-time friend and colleague. When I represented the State of Washington in Japan, and Korea, Deborah was one of the first people we met when we first visited Seattle, in 1989. I was overwhelmed with her warm, welcoming attitude. The next year, she came to our office in Tokyo to visit potential Japanese corporate investors for the purpose of resort development. I was thoroughly impressed by her professionalism and preparedness--as were the Japanese clients, normally not as accepting of women in a business environment. Women professionals, especially ones as young, confident and outgoing as Deborah were practically unknown at the time. Because she was blonde and well-dressed, she and i privately joked that the other passengers in the subway carriage (all Japanese of course), might think she was a famous foreigner--perhaps a movie star. She certainly did have a glow about her, and could easily light up a room with just a smile. I was shocked, as we all were, to learn of her struggle with MSA, but so impressed with her courage and stamina in the face of it. Though she lost her struggle, I cannot think of a better champion for inspiring the rest of us to continue the fight. Sayonara, my dear friend.
Bruce and Sara Kendall
January 10, 2017
Deborah was a wonderful colleague and friend in the world of economic development. Great smile, great personality and great drive - a beautiful combination. We will miss her and wish the family heartfelt condolences.
Arlene Strong
January 10, 2017
Debbie was such an inspiration to all of us. Such a beautiful heart and wonderful smile. May she be at peace and her family have loving memories.
Joe and Della Maricich
January 9, 2017
Debbie had been our neighbor for the past 30 years. She was friendly, sparkly and fun and always managed to organize the best parties for New Year's Eve and the Fourth of July. She will be dearly missed by our entire neighborhood.
Our deepest sympathy to Mike, Erin and Garret.
Love to you all.
Gary Magnuson
January 8, 2017
We have so many good memories of you Debbie! Thank you so much for being you! Our neighborhood and friends are blessed with many good memories you taught us about living life. I only hope my life will be as great as the example you set for us all. Thanks for allowing us in to your life! Thanks for the memories and time you shared with us! Your spirit carries on!
Terri Danielson
January 8, 2017
Deb touched so many lives with her kindness, positive energy and incredible drive. She will forever be remembered fondly by all of us! We miss you Deb but know you are in peace now. Thank you for your friendship! XOXO
Joni Low
January 8, 2017
I first met Debbie when we both worked for Congress in Washington DC, during the Carter Administration. Then we discovered that we both planned to attend graduate school in Seattle at the University of Washington. We roomed together on Capitol Hill the second year of grad school with an apartment overlooking the Space Needle. While in grad school Debbie met Mike and I met my husband Gary. She had many double dates together and Debbie was an awesome roommate and friend. I'm glad I was able to spend time with her these past few years in sunny Palm Springs, and visiting her in Seattle. She never lost that wonderful smile, strength or spirit. Debbie, I will greatly miss you. My love to Mike, Erin and Garrett.
Nicole Faghin
January 8, 2017
Deb, I will always miss your open, honest and compassionate friendship. Thank you for being a part of my life.
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