Obituary of Debra Ann Minkler

Debra Ann Minkler, 54, passed away peacefully at home on August 29, 2014. She was born in Sedro Woolley, WA on December 18, 1959, to the late Patricia and Elburn (Tom) Minkler and was the oldest of the three children. The family settled in Portland, Oregon, where she attended Llewellyn Grade School and Cleveland High School. She was a talented and gifted artist as a child and always knew that she wanted to pursue art as a career. Deb studied Illustration and Graphic Art Design at Mt. Hood Community College for two years, Portland State University for two years and eventually moved to New York, where she resided for five years to attend Parsons School of Design. She later returned to Portland, OR and worked as a graphic designer for various companies until the birth of her children, Madeline Hunt (25) and Samuel Hunt (23). They were truly her pride and joy and she devoted her time to being a stay-at-home mom. After she divorced in 1998, she went back to school and attended the two year graphic and web design program at Mt. Hood Community College, where she would later become a teacher in that program all the while teaching various watercolor classes throughout the community. She then became a freelance graphic designer, while still volunteering her time to help in her children’s classes. Deb donated art pieces to various fundraising events, offered her graphic art skills to schools for publications, billboards and even came up with the logo for her neighborhood’s farmer’s market. She continued painting and holding her own art shows at various venues and was a member of the Talisman Art Gallery. Deb had a thirst for knowledge. She loved reading, taking different classes from French to art to marketing and networking and was always willing to share her knowledge with anyone who wanted or needed her help or advice. Her family was most important. She was always at her children’s and nieces’ and nephew’s performances, games, graduations, etc. She was Madeline and Sam’s biggest fan which was apparent to all, always beaming with pride at their latest accomplishments. Deb had a kind heart, an incredible sense of style, the most beautiful eyes and smile and those qualities came through in the art she created. She is survived by her children, Madeline Hunt and Sam Hunt, her sister, Donna (Pete) Sweeney, her nieces, Grace, Anne, and Lily Sweeney, brother, Dave (Barbie) Minkler , nephew, Michael Minkler and niece, Haley Minkler. Deb will be missed by all who were fortunate enough to know her, but she lives on through our sweet memories. Service will be held on Saturday, September 20, at 11:00am, at St. Agatha Catholic Church at 1430 SE Nehalem Street, Portland, OR 97202, with a dessert reception following. In lieu of flowers donations can be made to: The PONGO Fund, PO Box 8244, Portland, OR 97207. Service Information