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Debra Jean Gleckler, 70, of Wauseon, Ohio, passed away peacefully on April 8, 2026, at UTMC, surrounded by the love of her family.
Deb was the devoted wife and soulmate of 40 years to Richard, and a proud and loving mother to Emily (Brian) Barnes, Les (Nina) Gleckler, Ben (Nicole) Gleckler, and Beth (Alan) Albright.
She was a deeply cherished Nana to her nine grandchildren—Cassidy (Cole) Calvin, Zevin Gleckler, Payton Albright, Ella Albright, Lyric Gleckler, Landon Gleckler, Clark Gleckler, Kahle Albright, and Kirsten Gleckler—each of whom she loved “WHOLE BUNCHES,” a phrase that will forever echo in their hearts.
She is also survived by her sister, Lynne (Kenny) Shadbolt; her brothers, Mike Frantz and Jeff (Lori) Frantz; as well as many nieces, nephews, and dear friends who were like family to her. Deb was preceded in death by her parents, Arlington “Wink” and Sue (Kathryn Susanne) Frantz, and her sister, Karen Donahue.
Deb’s greatest joy in life was her family. She and Rick could often be found side-by-side at their grandchildren’s sporting events, school programs, and activities, cheering them on with unwavering pride. She was fiercely protective, endlessly supportive, and deeply proud of the life she and Rick built together.
Gifted with a natural creativity, Deb had a special love for flowers. She shared that passion with her community through her business, The Flower Lady, and through her work as a florist for other local shops throughout the years. Her arrangements brought beauty to countless celebrations, milestones, and everyday moments.
Deb was a faithful and active member of First Christian Church, where she lovingly decorated the sanctuary, helped with Vacation Bible School, and served as chairperson of the Evangelism Ministry.
She found deep joy in serving her church family, and her faith was reflected in her kindness, her generosity, and the quiet ways she cared for others.
She also had a special place in her heart for her many beloved pets over the years, each one treated as part of the family and deeply loved.
At the age of 44, Deb survived a massive heart attack and was given only a few years to live. Through strength, faith, and determination, she defied those expectations, blessing her family with more than 26 additional years of love, laughter, and memories—years that will forever be treasured.
Deb will be remembered for her warmth, her creativity, her fierce love, and the way she made everyone feel like they belonged. Her legacy lives on in the family she adored and the lives she touched so deeply.
Visitation for Deb will take place on Thursday, April 16, 2026, from 3 p.m. to 7 p.m., at the First Christian Church in Wauseon. A memorial service will take place on Friday, April 17, 2026, at the church, at 11 a.m., with Pastor Michael Doerr officiating. Inurnment will follow at the Wauseon Union Cemetery.
In lieu of flowers, the family asks that donations be made in Deb’s memory to the church’s prayer garden, a special place she lovingly initiated and held close to her heart.
Online condolences may be offered to the family at www.grisierfh.com. The Edgar-Grisier Funeral Home of Wauseon is honored to serve the Gleckler family.
The obituary for Deb was lovingly prepared by her family.
