Longtime Nurse Deborah Baker Dies at 67

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Deborah 'Deb' Marie Baker, a 67-year-old resident of Milbank, South Dakota, passed away on Sunday, March 8, 2026 at St. Williams Care Center after a long journey with early-onset Alzheimer's disease. Deb was a hardworking and passionate nurse who served in various roles over her 35-year career, including home health, operating room, cardiac rehabilitation, hospice, and hospital leadership. She was also deeply involved in her local communities, directing and acting in community theater productions, coaching high school speech and music programs, and leading youth ministries at her church.

Why it matters

Deb's passing is a loss for the tight-knit communities she was a part of, as she was known for her generosity, creativity, and dedication to serving others. Her story highlights the challenges faced by those with early-onset Alzheimer's and the impact the disease can have on individuals and their loved ones.

The details

Deb lived with purpose and generosity, leaving a meaningful imprint on every community she called home. She previously resided in Tracy, Minnesota; Tyler, Texas; Linden, Texas; Sioux Center, Iowa; and Sisseton, South Dakota before moving to Milbank in 2008 to become the Director of Nursing at the local hospital. In addition to her nursing career, Deb was involved in the arts, directing and acting in community theater productions, and was active in her church, leading Sunday school, youth group, and drama ministries.

• Deb passed away on Sunday, March 8, 2026.
• Funeral services will be held at 1:00 p.m. on Friday, March 13, 2026 at Tracy Lutheran Church.
• Visitation will be from 5:00-7:00 p.m. on Thursday, March 12, 2026 at the Tracy Area Funeral Home, and from 12:00 p.m. on Friday at the church before the funeral service.