Deborah Lucille Asmus, known affectionately as “Ma Debbie”, age 59 of Bayport MN, died suddenly on Sunday, August 7, 2011 at her residence. Debbie was born May 29, 1952 in Hudson WI to parents Bernhard A. and Mae J. (Miller) Hirte. Debbie was a graduate of Stillwater High School, graduating with the Class of 1970. On February 21, 1975 at the St. Paul Lutheran Church in Stillwater, Debbie would be united in marriage to Daniel Frederick Asmus.

Debbie worked for many years as a binder for the Bayport Printing House, but was a homemaker as well, where she enjoyed crocheting afghans, as well as needlepoint and embroidery. She also enjoyed growing flowers and plants in her gardens, where she also raised orchids. Debbie also enjoyed watching her soaps, going fishing, and spending time with Dan and her family at car shows. Debbie was a wonderful mom, grandma, sister, aunt and friend. She will be missed by all the people whose lives and hearts she has touched.

Debbie was preceded in death by her parents, Bernie and Mae; her brother, Jeffrey L. Hirte; and her sister, Becky Ann Hirte. Debbie is survived by her husband of 36 years, Dan; son, Nate (Kristin) Asmus; daughter, Shelly (Rob) Walker, and Melissa Mason; grandsons, Alex and Joseph; brothers, Steven (Laurie) Hirte, and Terry (Ann) Hirte; as well as many nieces, nephews, other relatives and dear friends.

Funeral services for Debbie Asmus will be held at 3:00PM on Thursday afternoon, August 11, 2011 at the O’Connell Family Funeral Home, 520 South 11th Street in Hudson. Visitation will be held from 1:00PM until the start of the service. A family burial will be held at the Lakeview Cemetery in Lakeland MN. Memorials are preferred to the discretion of the family. Funeral and cremation services have been entrusted to the O’Connell Family Funeral Home of Hudson WI, and the Countryside Crematory of Baldwin WI. 715-386-3725