Debra Jo Michaelson was born on November 30, 1954, in Mission Viejo, CA, to Joseph and Donna Whalen. Holland & Bonine has been entrusted with arrangements.

For many years, Debbie worked as a bookkeeper, a career that suited her sharp mind and attention to detail. Outside of work, she found joy and adventure riding Harley-Davidsons with her beloved husband, Norman, sharing countless miles and memories together on the open road. Debbie also had a deep love for animals and shared her life with many beloved cats and dogs over the years, each of them holding a special place in her heart.

Debbie spent her final years in Montana, the state that captured her heart as a child. She leaves behind a legacy of love and countless cherished memories with her family and friends. Among those who held a special place in her heart were her lifelong friends Nikki Collins, Cheryl Hodgson, Cheri Radford, and Debbie Brummett.

She was preceded in death by her beloved husband, Norman Michaelson; her parents, Donna and Joseph Whalen; and her brother, Robert Whalen.

Debbie is survived by her sister, Ladonna (Larry) Mohler; her children, Joseph (Becky) Crouchet, Michelle (Joseph) Thacker, and Jay Crouchet; her cherished grandchildren, Alora, Marcelina, Bailey, Jenna, and Brayden; and her great-grandchildren, Beau, Arjun, and Joella.

A special thank you to the compassionate team at Northern Montana Care Center for their kindness and care during Debbie Jo's final year.

She will be deeply missed and forever remembered by those who knew and loved her.