Deborah Ann Ratte (nee Andert) was born into this world on May 4, 1952 and went home to her eternal happiness with God on December 9, 2017. Preceded in death by her parents Bernard & Joan Andert. Survived by her loving husband of 36 years Tom Ratte; son Dan (Jenni) Ratte, grandchildren Samantha & Gabriel. Also survived by her siblings: Fr. Tom Andert, OSB, Laura Andert (Chris Lienhard), Tim (Joette) Andert, in-laws: Geoff (Jean) Ratte, Markey Persby, her dedicated PCA Jean Larson, hairstylist and friend Barb Schmidt, Lynn Cronquist, Pat Rustad, Virginia Rustad, Linda Peterson, Peggy Parenteau, fellow high school Bulldog classmates and many other family and friends.

Deb was a faithful woman who put God first in all that she did. Deb graduated from Saint Bernard’s High School in 1970 and became a skilled registered nurse at Arthur B. Ancker School of Nursing in 1973. Deb worked in the burn unit at Ramsey Hospital Regional Burn Center. Typical of her giving, generous and caring nature, she often accepted the challenge of providing in flight care for burn patients during transport. Deb’s career was cut short when she was diagnosed with Multiple Sclerosis in 1976.

Deb and Tom met in February 1981 and in spite of her recent diagnosis, she was able to physically walk down the aisle 4 months later. They were active members of their church and community.

Deb contributed to MS research by volunteering for clinical trials and new drug treatments which sometimes helped slow the progression of her symptoms. Deb’s favorite coping advice was always very simple: “it is what it is” and “this too shall pass”. Deb was incredibly tolerant, positive and never complained of that hand she was dealt. Deb was able to beat the odds longer than anyone could have guessed.

Deb had a lust for life. Her brain and heart wanted to continue per usual when her body would no longer allow her to do so. Deb decorated for every holiday and had a pair of earrings to go with each one. She enjoyed Christmas shopping trips, cheering on the MS150 bicyclists, family gatherings and a good cup of coffee. Deb was able to find joy in everyday life including having her grandkids climb into bed with her to watch cartoons.

Many thanks to the wonderful staff at St. Croix Hospice who provided in home services for Deb so that she was able to die peacefully at home surrounded by her loved ones.

Mass of Christian Burial Thursday, December 14th at 12:00pm at ST. MARY OF THE LAKE CHURCH, 4741 Bald Eagle Avenue, WBL. Visitation Wednesday December 13th from 4-8pm at Mueller Memorial Funeral Home 4738 Bald Eagle Avenue, WBL.

Memorials preferred to: National MS Society Upper Midwest Chapter “Deb Ratte Memorial Fund” 200 12th Ave. So., Minneapolis, MN 55415 or online at www.nationalmssociety.org/goto/DebRatte .