Debra Lynn Alphs

Debra (Debi) Lynn (Nielsen) Alphs, age 63 of Britt, went home to Jesus on Saturday, September 28, 2024. Debi was born to Roger and Beverly Nielsen of Crystal Lake, IA on January 20, 1961.

She graduated from Woden Crystal Lake in 1979. After high school, she was employed at Pamida in Forest City, IA. Debi was united in marriage to Steve Gerdes on October 12, 1979. To this union, 3 sons were born (Christopher, Joshua, and Caleb).

Debi worked as a dietary aide at the Hancock County Memorial Hospital in Britt, IA for a short time and then was employed at Winnebago Industries, briefly, before pursuing a degree in Cosmetology at La’ James College in Mason City, IA. Debi opened a salon in Crystal Lake, IA and later returned to Winnebago Industries for several years, working as a Motorhome Body Repair Technician until she retired a few years ago.

Debi was united in marriage to Michael Alphs on September 13, 2001, gaining a daughter (Jennie).

Debi was very creative, had a great sense of humor, and was abundantly gracious, often forgiving others where most would struggle to do so. She had the gift of compassion, was clothed with humility, and was incredibly generous. It brought her joy to give of herself and of the things she had. Relationships were far more important to her than any of her possessions. Most importantly was her relationship with Jesus, choosing to accept Him as her Lord and Savior and being baptized as an adult. She loved Jesus, her family, and friends zealously.

Those left to cherish her memory are her 3 sons, a daughter, and 7 grandchildren – Christopher & (Crystal) Gerdes of Garner, IA – Carter, Caysen, and Cullen, Joshua Gerdes of Algona, IA, Caleb & (Brittney) Gerdes of Algona, IA – Wesson and Charlotte, Jennie Petersen of  Algona, IA – Kinnick Petersen and Presley Hovey, her parents – Roger & Beverly Nielsen of Crystal Lake, IA, 3 sisters – Pam & (Kevin) Hofmann of Cedar Rapids, IA, Kim & (Jason) Redenius of Britt, IA, and Tara Holland of Woden, IA, and many nieces, nephews, and special friends.

Welcoming her to her heavenly home are her husband – Michael Alphs, her grandparents – Albert (Butch) & Cordelia Nielsen, Henry (Hank) & Julia Gelder and her in-laws – Donald & Irma Alphs and William & Velma Gerdes.

A celebration of life will be held at Kluver Community Center in Crystal Lake, IA on Saturday, November 2, 2024 from 1:00 – 4:00 pm.