Debra Tauer

Debra Ann Tauer, age 69, passed away peacefully on January 1, 2026, at Windom Area Health, with family by her side. She was born on May 25, 1956, in Sleepy Eye, Minnesota, to Edwin and Agnes (Schroepfer) Tauer. 

Visitation will be held on Friday, January 9, 2026, from 9:00 a.m. until 11:00 a.m. at St. Mary’s Catholic Church (North Entrance) in Sleepy Eye. A Funeral Mass will follow at 11:00 a.m., with graveside services at St. Mary’s Cemetery. Arrangements are with Sturm Funeral Home in Sleepy Eye. Online condolences may be left for the family at www.sturmfh.com.

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to Special Olympics, in honor of Debra’s lifelong love of athletics and competition. 

Debra was born with Down syndrome, but she never allowed it to limit her experiences or her joy for life. She spent her early years on the family farm until the age of 13, when her family lovingly chose opportunities that would best support her continued growth and development. Debra moved to Vasa Lutheran Home in Red Wing, Minnesota, where she attended school, expanded her language skills, built meaningful social relationships, participated in physical education activities, and received work training.

These experiences led Debra to Friendship Haven, Sherburn Minnesota where her athletic abilities truly flourished. She developed strong swimming skills and competed in numerous events, qualifying for the 1983 International Summer Special Olympics in Baton Rouge, Louisiana. There, she competed in the 25- and 50-meter freestyle swimming events against athletes from around the world. Debra proudly earned a gold medal and later won a bronze medal in the 25-meter race. At the time, she was one of only four Minnesota participants to win more than one medal.

She transitioned from Friendship Haven to COR where she lived with her extended family for more than 45 years. In her free time, Debra was a passionate fan of the Minnesota Vikings and Minnesota Twins, often proudly sporting her favorite team shirts, sweatshirts, or caps. She was also an avid bowler and took great pride in her many trophies. She loved playing cards and had a special connection to music—sometimes even sitting next to the band to soak it all in. Dancing and singing brought her endless joy. Debra also loved adventures with her roommates, enjoying trips and vacations that took her as far away as sunny Florida.

Debra worked at MRCI where she was recognized for 40 years of service. Wherever she lived, Debra was an integral part of social gatherings and known for her warm smile, enthusiasm, and friendly spirit. Above all, Debra deeply loved her family. While she cherished her life in Sherburn, she was always excited to return home for family celebrations, holidays, or simply a weekend visit. In May of 2024, Debra moved to HCL in Windom to live with her new extended family until the time of her passing.

The family wishes to thank the many caregivers and staff, whose kindness, support, and encouragement helped Debra live a full and joyful life.

Debra is survived by her siblings: Sylvia Willaby of Gurnee, Illinois; Elaine Walden of Cape Girardeau, Missouri; Gerald (Donna) Tauer of Clarkston, Michigan; Kenneth (Darlene) Tauer of Sleepy Eye, Minnesota; and Jeanette (Larry) Lalim of Jordan, Minnesota; along with many nieces, one nephew, great-nieces, great-nephews, great-great-nieces and one great-great-nephew. She was preceded in death by her parents, Edwin and Agnes Tauer; her brother-in-law, Carl Willaby; her niece, Traci Walden and extended Sherburn family members Jeanne Akre and Terri Ringnell.