Obituary: Debra Lyn Anhalt (nee Kooyenga)

Obituary was published and funeral arrangements were entrusted to the care and direction of the Fred C. Dames Funeral Home and Crematory​.

Debra Lyn Anhalt (nee Kooyenga)

Debra Lyn ”Debbie”Anhalt, age 54, of Plainfield, IL, passed away peacefully, surrounded by her family, on Friday, October 30, 2026, at her home. She was born on November 21, 1971, in Oak Park, IL, to Bernard “Bernie” and Sheryl “Sherry” (nee Anderson) Kooyenga.

Debbie loved her family deeply. They were the center of her world. She married her high school sweetheart, and they just celebrated their 30^th wedding anniversary in July. Both Debbie and Ray took their vows in sickness and in health to heart, caring for one another through life’s biggest blessings and challenges. Debbie treasured watching her two daughters grow up and become successful young women. Her heart was fullest when her children were near.

One of her greatest joys came from becoming a grandmother. She spoiled her granddaughter with endless love and found comfort in knowing she will forever be her guardian angel. Debbie adored her rescued doggies that brought love and laughter into her life; Novah and Penny greatly comforted her through her most trying days.

Debbie lived her life with kindness and strength. A devoted special education teacher, Debbie cared deeply for her students. She took great pride in ensuring they all received the best education.

Some of her best memories included trips to Disney World with her family and watching her beloved White Sox. She loved her chocolate martinis, binge-watching Friends, and waiting for her yearly Cadbury Creme Eggs to come back into season.

She will be missed tremendously by all who knew and loved her.

Debbie is survived by her beloved husband, Ray Anhalt, Jr.; her loving daughters, Lauren (Max) Burrus and Stephanie Anhalt; her adoring granddaughter, Layla Lyn Burrus; proud parents, Bernie and Sherry Kooyenga; dear sister, Cindy (Jason) Villalobos; father and mother-in-law, Ray and Josie Anhalt, Sr.; two aunts; and numerous nieces and nephews.

She was greeted in death by her two dogs, Lexie and Cooper, and two cats, Mickey and Peanut.

A Memorial Gathering for Debra Lyn Anhalt will be held on Tuesday, November 3, 2026, at the Fred C. Dames Funeral Home, 3200 Black Rd. in Joliet, from 3:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. As it was Debra’s request, cremation rites have been accorded.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions in Debra’s name can be made to the Pink Heals Joliet Area Chapter or to the Will County Humane Society.

For more information, please call 815-741-5500 or visit her Memorial Tribute at www.fredcdames.com where you can share a favorite memory or leave an online condolence.

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