Deborah 'Debbie' Krier, 75

On Wednesday Nov. 27, 2024, Heaven gained an angel. Deborah "Debbie" Krier, 75, was born on Sept. 18, 1949, in San Luis Obispo, California. Her parents were Clarence and Dorothy (Herzog) Winkley. 

Debbie and her family lived in California until she was one year old. At that time, they moved back to Kalispell where the family had lived, before she was born. As a child, she spent the winters traveling to Santa Barbara, California to help with her family's Christmas tree business. Debbie had a wonderful childhood surrounded by her parents, two older (Jake and Randy) and one younger (Jeff) brothers, and many friends. She graduated from Flathead High School in 1967. 

 As a young adult, Debbie was married in Kalispell and from this union had one daughter, Heidi. Debbie was a stay-at-home mom, that took this job seriously. Room mother, brownie leader or chaperoning dances to name a few. She was involved in all the activities her daughter was involved in. Debbie became an avid golfer and member of Buffalo Hills Golf Course for over 50 years. She also enjoyed skiing, playing softball and racquetball. In later years, Debbie worked at Flathead County Justice Center until her retirement.  

46 years ago, Debbie married the love of her life, Jerome "Jerry" Krier. They spent these years enjoying each other, golfing, traveling, and making priceless memories with family and friends. One of their favorite things to do together, rain or shine, was to follow their grandchildren Brooke and Kyle to all their sporting events. 

Debbie's greatest smiles came from being with her family. She was so proud of her two grandchildren. Family time, puzzles, games, and holidays; with Thanksgiving being her favorite was always so special to her. She followed college sports closely and enjoyed attending Griz football games. Go Zags and Go Griz! Debbie took pride in being Polynesian, and throughout her life was able to research and gain more knowledge about her heritage. In 2020, a new addition to the family (Rowen), the light of her life was born. Becoming "Gigi" added to her smile, bringing a new sense of purpose and happiness to her life. 

She had a way of connecting with everyone she met, leaving a lasting impression on those she encountered. She was our little social butterfly, that always knew someone wherever she went. Debbie was part of a close group of friends. Whether it was a coffee date, dinner or time visiting at the house, she cherished it all.  

Debbie had a deep appreciation for life, savoring every experience and opportunity. She was always willing to go on an adventure whether it was a short outing or an overnight trip. One special memory with her family was in the spring of 2024. Four generations including their families (nine total) went to Disneyland, where she enjoyed sightseeing, rides and fun food. All of us enjoyed the same along with the stories she shared from her first trip to Disneyland on opening day in 1955. 

Debbie’s loved ones each gave a one-word description for the person they loved so much. These included: fearless, lively, funny, loyal, beautiful, determined, amazing, admirable, strong, tenacious, classy, indescribable and caring. Her greatest attributes included her faith, fortitude, and strength. 

She was preceded in death by her husband, Jerry Krier and her parents. 

She is survived by her daughter, Heidi and husband, Curtis Anderson; granddaughter, Brooke and husband, Dan Weaver; grandson, Kyle Sampson and fiancé, Amanda Loveless; great-granddaughters, Rowen Weaver and Ashlyn Weaver; her three brothers, Jake Nelson, Randy and wife Patty Nelson, Jeff and wife Janeen Winkley; and many loved nephews and nieces.  

She will be missed by us all, but it relieves us knowing who she has been reunited with. Our beloved Mom/Grandma/Gigi is now dancing again with Jerry. 

A memorial mass will be held at 11 a.m. on Friday, Dec. 13, at St. Matthews Catholic Church. A reception will immediately follow in the Doran Center at St. Matthews.

Condolences can be sent to: Family of Debbie Krier, PO Box 2878, Kalispell, MT 59901. 

Buffalo Hill Funeral Home and Crematory is caring for the family.