Debra “Debbie” Ness, 65, of Crookston, MN, passed away peacefully on April 5, 2026, surrounded by the love of her family.

Debbie was born on May 22, 1960, in Crookston, Minnesota, to Floyd and Jean (Schroeder) Stave. She was raised in Crookston and attended Crookston Public Schools. Throughout her life, Debbie was a dedicated and hardworking woman, contributing her time and talents to American Crystal Sugar, the American Legion, and Walmart.

Debbie was deeply involved in her community, especially through the Crookston Eagles Auxiliary. Her commitment and leadership were evident as she proudly served as President from 1996–1997 and again from 2010–2011, and as State Mother from 2009–2010. She built lifelong friendships and touched many lives through her service.

On February 14, 1983, Debbie married the love of her life, Randy Dale Ness. Together, they shared 43 beautiful years filled with love, laughter, and unwavering partnership. They were blessed with six children: Sarah, Amy, Kristen, Shaun, Nichole, and Katie, who were the center of Debbie’s world.

Debbie found her greatest joy in time spent with her family. She loved hosting gatherings, where her home was always full of warmth, laughter, and good food. She cherished moments with her children and grandchildren, enjoyed visiting with friends, planting and caring for her flowers each spring, camping, and traveling—especially her trips to Virginia.

Debbie is survived by her devoted husband, Randy Ness; her children, Sarah (Cory) Moreno of South Chesterfield, VA; Amy (Drew) Johnson of Crookston, MN; Kristen (Eric) Aguilar of Monticello, MN; Shaun (Anne) Ness of Crookston, MN; Nichole (Tommy) Ness of Crookston, MN; and Katie (Dylan) Ness of Williston, ND; her sister, Kim Rivera; sisters-in-law Debbie (Danny) Lorenson and Diane (Darren) Wagner; and brother-in-law Mike Ness.

She also leaves behind her cherished grandchildren: Haley, Kathryn, Gabi, Caitlynn, Dylan, Tyler, Brooklynn, Taylor, Jaelyn, Maci, Collin, Madilynn, Grayson, Xavier, Zeke, Aiden, Wyatt, Makenzie, and Mason, along with many beloved nieces and nephews.

Debbie will be lovingly remembered as “Mama Ness” and “Grandma Debbie,” not only by her own family, but by countless friends of her children and grandchildren who were always welcomed into her home with open arms.

She was preceded in death by her parents, Floyd and Jean Stave, and her parents-in-law, Donald and Arlene Ness.

A celebration of Debbie’s life will be held on Friday, April 10, 2026, at 11:00 a.m. at Stenshoel-Houske Funeral Home. The service will be livestreamed, a link to which will be available at www.stenshoelhouske.com/obituaries/debra-ness.

Debbie’s family would like to extend their heartfelt gratitude to all friends and loved ones for their support, prayers, and care during this difficult time.

Debbie will be deeply missed and forever remembered by all who knew and loved her.