Deb was born on May 13, 1961, in Fremont, Nebraska, to Byron Broekemeier and Dorothy Goree. She graduated from Kearney High School in 1979, attended Western Nebraska Community College from 1984 to 1986, earning an Associate of Arts degree in Psychology, and Chadron State College from 1986 to 1988, where she earned a Bachelor of Arts degree with a triple major in Psychology and a minor in Criminal Justice. Throughout her life, Deb dedicated herself to serving others with a focus on education and development. She founded Together We Can, a ministry created to encourage and support single mothers. Deb served as an admin for Christ Community Church, and as a receptionist and event planner for Herbie's Auto Sales in Greeley, Colorado. Deb was a Trainer and Customer Care Sales Specialist for Marriott International, and a Student Development Director at The Cross Training Center in Omaha.

Deb was devoted to her family. She was married to Leonard Rouse and was the proud and loving mother of a daughter and son. She treasured every moment spent with them. Becoming "Mimi" to her three grandchildren was one of her greatest joys. She is lovingly remembered by her siblings: Cindy (Al) Monaco, Kerri Stoetzel, and Karl (Kim) Broekemeier. Deb's family also included her many Broekemeier and Goree relatives, church friends, work friends and neighbors. She had a huge capacity to love. Many will remember Deb for the "heart hugs" she gave so freely, offering genuine love, compassion, and encouragement that left people feeling seen, valued, and deeply cared for.

Her faith in Jesus Christ was the foundation of her life. Deb's relationship with Jesus shaped everything she did. She never missed an opportunity to pray for someone, offer encouragement, or share God's love. She faithfully served in prayer teams, prophetic ministry, and numerous Bible study groups through Christ Community Church and Fusion Church in Greeley, CO, Good News Church, Life Gate Church, and The Table in Omaha, NE.

Deb was an artist, expressing herself through painting, doodle art, flower arrangements, bringing beauty and color wherever she went. Deb found joy in life's simple gifts to elevate the moment, sharing homemade treats with family and friends. She loved worship music, coffee with friends, playing cards and board games, picnics, camping, and treasured quality time with those she cared about. She loved butterflies, the color purple, and the breathtaking beauty of Colorado—especially the Rocky Mountains, a place that always felt like home to her soul. Some of her children's favorite memories were movie nights at home, where popcorn always came with hidden pieces of candy tucked inside the bowl—a simple tradition she passed on that perfectly reflected Deb's playful spirit and desire to make everyday moments memorable.

One of Deb's greatest personal victories was her sobriety. She was incredibly proud to celebrate 37 years of recovery, a testimony to God's faithfulness, her perseverance, and the hope she shared so freely with others.

Deb's legacy is not measured only by what she accomplished, but by the countless lives she touched. She loved generously, prayed boldly, and reminded everyone she met that they mattered. Her compassion, unwavering faith, infectious laugh, and servant's heart will continue to inspire all who had the privilege of knowing her. Though she will be deeply missed, her family rejoices in knowing she has been welcomed into the presence of her Savior. Her race is finished, her faith has become sight, and her greatest joy is now complete.

A celebration of Deb's life—her Home Going Party—will be held on Friday, July 17, 2026, at 10:30am at The Table, 1122 Howard Street, Omaha, Nebraska 68102. Please wear something purple in memory of Deb.

Note: Cremated, Ashes spread in Rocky Mountains

#2 Omaha World-Herald July 12, 2026

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~~~Obituaries courtesy of the Nebraska Washington County Genealogical Society. Newspaper clippings on file in the Blair, Nebraska Public Library~~~ FindaGrave 301725243