Deb Foertsch

Deb Foertsch, 69, of Lidgerwood, ND, passed away peacefully on June 8, 2025, at St. Catherine’s Living Center in Wahpeton, ND. A celebration of her life will be held on Saturday, June 14th, from 3 pm onward at the Mantador VFW.

Deb was born on January 14, 1956, in Staples, Minnesota, to Maurice and Ida (Rahman) Heitkamp. She grew up in Mantador, ND, surrounded by many friends and family who instilled small town values, empathy, a commitment to community, and dedication to others in her heart. Deb was a loyal friend, mentor, and coach to many throughout her life.

Deb was an avid softball player and coach earlier in her life and became a lifelong mentor to many. Throughout her career, she wore several hats while working at her dad’s bar and cafe in Mantador, staying at home with her children, farming near Lidgerwood, and bookkeeping at local businesses. She dedicated over 25 years of her career to Southeast Water Users, where her work ethic, reliability, and warm personality left a lasting impact on coworkers and the community alike. In her retirement, Deb continued her devotion to the local community by working for the Lidgerwood Ambulance, and she was instrumental in establishing County Line Foods in Lidgerwood. Her dedication to her community was matched only by her devotion to her daughters and friends.

She is survived by her two daughters, Danielle (Jim) Newman of Hancock, MI, and Brittany (Tanner) Johnson of Grand Forks, ND, who were her pride and joy. She was a loving grandmother to Maris, Rook, and Sutton and found great happiness in watching them grow. Deb is also survived by her brother, Bob (Barb) Heitkamp of Mantador, ND, her sister, Kathy (Jim) Owens of Qulin, MO, and many extended family members and friends. She was preceded in death by her parents and her sister, Becky Heitkamp.

Those who knew Deb knew a woman of strength, dedication, kindness, and a steady, calming presence. She had a quick wit, a generous heart, and a way of making others feel seen and cared for. Whether she was enjoying a peaceful day at home, spending time with her grandkids, playing softball, golfing, or offering a listening ear, Deb lived with grace, humility, and uncanny “luck.” Her legacy lives on in the love she gave, the people whose hearts she touched, and the family she cherished above all else.

She will be deeply missed and lovingly remembered. The family wishes to extend their sincere thank you to her friends, hospice staff, and nursing home staff who assisted with her care. It is an honor to see Deb’s dedication to her community reflected through your visits, stories, and conversations.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to CHI Health at Home in Breckenridge, MN, the Lidgerwood Progressive Development Corporation, or the Mantador VFW.