Debra Nance

Debra was born in Munising, Michigan, on December 10, 1961, to Morris and Ruth (Vartti) Nance. She grew up all over the Upper Peninsula, graduating from Westwood High School in Ishpeming in 1979. She continued her education at Bay College and completed a Bachelors Degree in Psychology and later a Masters Degree in Counseling both at Northern Michigan University.

Debra loved nothing more than to help people, which was reflected in her life’s work. She helped in starting Lake Superior Hospice, and provided social work care at UP Home Nursing, Marquette General Hospital, and UPCAP. Always looking to better her community, Debra was a past member of both the Rotary and Kiwanis in Marquette.

Debra enjoyed singing with her choir groups, the Marquette County Chamber Chorale and the Marquette Choral Society, and was able to perform in Finland and Italy, even singing at Carnegie Hall in New York.

Debra is survived by her daughters Hanna and Kayla Pederson, her mother Ruth Heidemann, sisters Terie (Richard) Clark and Lisa Richards, her brothers Craig and Brett (Julie) Nance, as well as step-sisters Janis LaFreniere, Julie Heidemann, and step-brother Jeff Heidemann, numerous aunts, uncles, cousins, and friends.

Debra was preceded in death by her father Morris W. Nance, step-father John E. Heidemann, and step-brother John R. Heidemann.

The family will receive relatives and friends at Fassbender Swanson Hansen Funeral and Cremation Services on Saturday, June 7, beginning at 10:00 am until the time of service at 12:00 pm. Rev. Greg Heikkala will officiate. An ‘Afterglow’ dessert reception will follow in the funeral home reception room.

Interment will be made in the Park Cemetery.

Memorials may be directed to a charity of donor’s choice.

Condolences may be expressed online at fassbenderswansonhansen.com