Deborah Dee Rogers Otto

       Deborah Dee Rogers Otto, age 72, passed away peacefully at her home in Medaryville, Indiana, on December 16, 2025. She was born on April 26, 1953, in Bessemer, Alabama, to Harold and Betty Conner. She was preceded in death by her parents; her beloved husband, Carl; her brothers, Michael and James; and her sister, Sandra.

       Debbie is survived by her beloved daughter, Heather (Brandon) Reese of Medaryville, Indiana; her stepdaughter, Shannon Ulrick of Fort Wayne, Indiana; her cherished grandchildren, Louden Reese and Baylee Ulrick; and many loving cousins, extended family members, and dear friends.

       Debbie lived by the words: “Always pray to have eyes that see the best in people, a heart that forgives the worst, a mind that forgets the bad, and a soul that never loses faith in God.” This sentiment perfectly reflected how she lived her life.

       She loved everyone, and everyone loved her. Her mother often said they broke the mold when they made Debbie. She was always happy, always smiling, and truly never met a stranger.

       Her greatest blessing was her daughter, Heather, and her even greater joy was her grandson, who was the light of her life. Every day she sang to him, “I’ll love you forever, I’ll like you for always, as long as I’m living, my buddy you’ll be.”

       Debbie met the love of her life, Carl, in 1978, and they shared more than 40 wonderful years together. That same year, they moved to Chesterton, Indiana, and later spent eight years living in Baltimore, Maryland, where she formed lifelong friendships that she treasured deeply.

       Debbie was a Girl Scout leader for many years and was always eager to be involved in meaningful causes. She was a longtime member of Chesterton United Methodist Church, where she was especially active in the beloved Grace Gathering. After moving to Medaryville, she also worshiped at Tefft United Methodist Church, where she quickly formed many new friendships.

       Her generous spirit was recognized through numerous honors, including being named Volunteer of the Year in both Chesterton and Baltimore, receiving the Paul Harris Award, and many other recognitions. Debbie was also an active member of several garden clubs and community organizations.

       Above all, Debbie wished to be remembered for her kindness and graciousness—qualities she shared freely with everyone she met.

       Visitation will be held on Monday, December 22, 2025, from 9:00 to 11:00 a.m. at Chesterton United Methodist Church, 434 S. 2nd Street, Chesterton, Indiana, followed by a Celebration of Life service at 11:00 a.m., officiated by Rev. Dave Patterson and Rev. Esta Rosario. All are invited to a luncheon immediately following the service in Terry Rhine Hall (basement). Women, please wear your big, furry hats!

       In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions in Debbie’s name may be made to Tefft United Methodist Church, 12603 N. 400 E, Wheatfield, IN 46392, or to Chesterton United Methodist Church.

Professional arrangements are entrusted to White-Love Funeral Home, Chesterton, IN.  Please share your wonderful memories with the family at: www.whitelovefuneralhome.com.

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