Debbie Jean Klein

Debbie Jean Klein, 64, of Grand Rapids, formerly of Rogers City, passed away Tuesday, December 21, 2021.

It is with deep sadness that we share the passing of Debbie Jean Klein (Yerks).  After several unanticipated events over the past six months, Debbie united with God at age 64 while at her assisted living facility in Grand Rapids December 21, 2021. 

She was preceded in death by her parents, Mel and Vera Yerks; and her brother-in-law, Tommy Rayha. 

She is survived by her daughter, Kasey (Kevin) Hagler; and granddaughter, Zayla Hagler, all of East Grand Rapids; and also survived by her sister, Sherry Rayha, of Cheboygan. 

Debbie was born January 26, 1957 and raised in Rogers City where she was surrounded by the love of a large extended family that she deeply cherished her entire life. Much of her family is still located in this region, and Debbie will forever call Rogers City home. She later moved to East Lansing, where she attended Lansing Business College and received a degree in medical transcription and paralegal services. She went on to work several years as a paralegal in downtown Lansing and later relocated to Traverse City, where she had and raised her only daughter, Kasey, with her former husband, Jay. Debbie is remembered as a loving mother, whose best moments were spent raising Kasey. She was an avid volunteer at local elementary schools and active in the PTO (Parent-Teacher  Organization) and other organizations in which Kasey was involved. If ever there was a woman who lived for her child, it was Debbie. Debbie later relocated to Grand Rapids to

be near her family and was blessed with her only grandchild, Zayla, now age 7. Debbie was active in Zayla’s early childhood years, and also became a regular volunteer at Zayla’s schools and cared for her regularly. Over the years, Debbie formed and held deep, lifelong friendships from childhood through adulthood, and these were shining beacons in Debbie’s life. Debbie’s recent decline was terribly unfortunate, but all the while, her caregivers described her as “very strong” and called her “Mama.” Her loss will be heavily felt by those close to her. 

At this time, there are no immediate funeral or memorial arrangements. Monetary funds gathered by those wishing to honor Debbie’s memory will be used to thank the direct care staff at Addington Place Grand Rapids, where she resided during her final months and final moments. Their care, compassion and diligence will be remembered and appreciated always. Donations may be sent C/O Kasey Hagler at 210 Hodenpyl Road SE, East Grand Rapids, MI 49506.