Deborah D McCloskey

How do we put into words someone who is irreplaceable in our lives? To know Deb was to feel the presence of someone touched by God’s light. Her beauty, warmth, and kindness drew people in effortlessly. Deb’s greatest joys were time spent with her adored family and friends, and regular visits to her “happy place” in Fort Mill, SC - a place that always renewed her spirit. Deb lived life filled with friendships that ran deep - rooted in genuine care, shared laughter, travel adventures, a light-hearted perspective when needed, and appreciation for everyday blessings.

Sunday dinners with family became sacred in Deb’s home; filled with laughter, stories, and the irresistible smell of her cooking. Gathering everyone around the table was one of her favorite ways to show love. These moments and memories will be deeply cherished.

Deb is survived by her husband, Jeff McCloskey; children, Joelle Pidhayny (Andy) and Justin Meldaus (Jenny); and her five treasured grandchildren - James, Ian, Ava, Gwen, and Brynn - each of whom knew her as their irreplaceable “Grandma D.” She is also survived by her siblings, Dennis DeVries (Nancy), Deidre Gustavson, Dawn Henkel (Scott), and brother-in-law, Ed Emholtz; godson, Max Henkel (Gwen); many nieces and nephews; and sister-in-law, Susette Smith (Pat).

She was welcomed into eternal rest by her late husband, Robert “Bob” Bleecker; parents, Ken & Lois DeVries; sister, Diane Emholtz; brother-in-law, Charles “Gus” Gustavson; and in-laws, Ray & Tootie Meldaus.

Deb had a gift for making others feel seen, heard, and deeply cared for. She taught us how to love with intention, to appreciate the small, sacred moments, and to walk through life with grace and laughter. We don’t know how to navigate life without her, but we will start by making the most of each day – because that’s how she lived. We take comfort in knowing that when we see her again, she will be there with her radiant smile, red lipstick, and a glass of Chardonnay - waiting to welcome us once more.

Deb’s family would like to express their deep gratitude to Dr. David King for his compassionate and dedicated care, guiding her through every stage of her journey with metastatic breast cancer.

A celebration of Deb’s life will be held on Saturday, December 13, at Robbinsdale Parkway UCC, 4200 Lake Rd, Robbinsdale, at 2 p.m., with visitation one hour prior.