Deborah Edith Woodard

Deborah Edith Woodard, lovingly known as Debbie, passed away peacefully on May 9, 2026, at her daughter’s home surrounded by love.

 She was born Deborah Edith Nielsen on January 1, 1950, in Sioux Falls, South Dakota, to LaVonne and Belmont Nielsen.

Debbie was preceded in death by her beloved husband, Clarence Wilfred Woodard, known to everyone as “Butch,” who passed away on November 14, 2014. Together they built a life centered around faith, hard work, family, and caring for others.

She is survived by her siblings Gary Nielsen, Karen Nielsen, Patty Kjose, and Chris Nielsen; her daughter Kimberly Hanna and Kimberly’s children Aziz, Annalys, and Akram; her son Brent Woodard, his daughter Katharyn Berger and husband Cory Berger, and their children Braxton and Presley; and her son Jared Woodard and his children Tyson and Kayla.

Debbie spent many years living in Kremmling, Colorado, where she worked in data processing at the courthouse before later working in computer technology in Colorado Springs. Eventually, Debbie, Butch, and their son Brent opened Fraser Tire and Auto in Fraser, Colorado, where they worked side by side for many years before retiring and moving to Johnstown.

Debbie was incredibly creative and talented. There was almost nothing she couldn’t make, fix, or teach herself to do. She enjoyed stained glass, knitting, crocheting, leather work, embroidery, painting, and countless other crafts. She was also an accomplished do-it-yourself remodeler who could paint, tile, texture walls, and tackle nearly any home project with confidence and skill. She even shared her talents by judging county fairs over the years.

More than anything, Debbie loved her family. Her children and grandchildren were the center of her world, and she rarely missed their sporting events, activities, and important moments. She was deeply involved in their lives and created memories with them that will be cherished forever.

Debbie was an extraordinary grandmother — loving, involved, supportive, and endlessly proud of her grandchildren. She made each one feel deeply loved and important, whether she was cheering from the sidelines, attending school events, helping with projects, or simply spending time together. Her home and heart were always open, not only to her own grandchildren, but to many children and friends who lovingly knew her as “Grandma” too. She had a special gift for making people feel welcome, cared for, and like family.

Debbie was a woman of deep faith. Raised Lutheran, she remained active in her Christian faith throughout her life and was involved with Christian Women’s Club and Aglow. Her faith, kindness, strength, and servant’s heart touched many people.

She devoted herself to caring for her husband Butch through his illness until his passing, always putting her family first. Her love was steady, generous, and unwavering.

Debbie was a huge part of the lives of everyone who knew and loved her. Her absence leaves an immeasurable void, but the love, creativity, faith, and strength she shared will remain with her family forever. She will be deeply missed and lovingly remembered every day.

A Celebration of Life will be held on June 7th 2026 11am, at the Extension Hall in Kremmling. Family and friends are invited to gather to honor and celebrate Debbie’s life, memories, and the love she shared with so many.