Debra K. (Ward) Dicke

Debra Kaye Dicke, 68, went home to the loving arms of her Lord, Jesus Christ, early on May 5, 2023.  She was born at home to Joel & Rose (Buchberger) Ward on May 21, 1954 in the Town of Lessor, Shawano County.  She attended Elm Lawn Grade School until 3rd grade when the school closed before transferring to Nichols Grade School.  She graduated from Seymour High School in 1972 before attending the Green Bay College of Cosmetology.  She was united to William Dicke in marriage at St. Joe’s Catholic Church on April 27, 1979, for almost 40 years, until his passing in 2018.  They were blessed with two loving sons, David and Daniel.

Deb loved music, from watching her husband perform, dancing with her sisters and just playing the oldies on the radio.  It was not uncommon for people to drop by unexpectedly for a cup of coffee and a haircut.  The coffee pot was never empty and the scissors was never too busy.  You needed to leave extra time for the visit because that was her favorite part.  She loved reading anything she could get her hands on, gardening and canning vegetables, the family dogs (Wilson & Gunner) and baking lots of sweet treats.  Her banana bread will be greatly missed by many.  She spent a majority of her years working at Page 1 in Appleton and then also at Target. 

She is survived by her sons along with many brothers and sisters: Nancy Piccolo, Glen (Yvonne) Ward, Joan Abel, Mina Landsverk, Mary Rettler, Dan (Cindy) Ward, Anita (Ray) Theobald and Lisa Ward.  Sisters-in-law: Colleen Ward, Joyce (Wayne) Heim and Luella Ward. Brother-in-law: David (Jean) Dicke.

She is now reunited in death by her husband, Bill Dicke, as well as Domenico Piccolo, Janis & Kenneth Trettin, Ivan (Bud) Ward, Robert Abel, David, Carl and William Ward, Bruce Landsverk, Samuel Rettler & Patrick Ward and sister-in-law Barbara (David) Haseman.

She will be greatly missed by many nieces and nephews, as well as all that knew her.  Her smile and sense of humor could light up a room.  She has finally found peace and is resting easy with Jesus.

Family and friends may gather on Friday, May 12, 2023 at Valley Funeral Home, 2211 N. Richmond St., Appleton from 9:00 to 11:00am, with a memorial service to follow at 11:00am, Deacon C.f. Dedman leading the service. Inurnment will take place at Elm Lawn Cemetery.

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