Debra “Debbie” A. Kavanaugh

Debra “Debbie” A. (neé Ziarek) Kavanaugh of Muskego, Wisconsin passed away peacefully surrounded by loving family on Friday, June 27, 2025, at the age of 68.

Debbie was born in Milwaukee, Wisconsin on November 28th, 1956, and is preceded in death by parents Eugene and Jeanette Ziarek. She is survived by and is the loving mother of daughters Shannon (Nathan Werner) and Kimberly. She is also survived by siblings Lawerence Ziarek, Barabara Shallock, David Ziarek, and Nannette Zawistowski. She was loved by countless extended family members, caregivers, and friends… Her entire army!

Debbie established her work ethic at an early age working alongside her siblings in the family-owned Ziarek Food Market on Milwaukee’s southside. A graduate of South Division High School, Debbie excelled in business and marketing, setting the stage for an impressive career in retail. Her keen sense of fashion began working as a teen at the Mitchell Street Mall and then as a buyer for Gimbels Department Stores after receiving her associate’s degree from MATC. She soon emerged as a leader, becoming Assistant Store Manager and then Store Manager for Marshall Field’s Department Store in Milwaukee. Her leadership was recognized with a feature in the Milwaukee Business Journal, a testament to her innovation and excellence during three decades in retail. After being diagnosed with Multiple Sclerosis in 2000, Debbie transitioned to a successful second career as a District Manager for US Bank, where she continued to lead and inspire for over ten years.

Outside of her incredible professional success, Debbie took great pride in her daughters and enjoyed spending time with family and friends and her beloved grand-doggies, KC, Bentley, and Stanley. She served as a friend, confidant, and mentor to several caregivers. She will be remembered for her extensive collection of everything giraffes, love of house plants, and unwavering courage and positivity. Debbie faced nearly 25 years with Multiple Sclerosis, but it never defined her. “It is what it is,” she would often say, living life with strength, humor, and grace.

“She was our mentor, our hero, and our heart.”

The family extends heartfelt thanks you to all of Debbie’s caregivers and Aurora Zilber Family Hospice for their compassionate care.

Visitation will be on Thursday, July 10, 2025 from 3:00 PM to 6:00 PM with a service immediately following at Krause Funeral Home, 12401 West National Avenue, New Berlin, Wisconsin.

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to the National MS Society & Aurora Zilber Family Hospice Center.

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