Debra Ann Perdew

Debra Perdew, affectionately known as Grandma Blue House by her five adoring grandchildren, passed away peacefully with her beloved family by her side.

She earned the sweet nickname “Grandma Blue House” thanks to her beautifully kept home near historic downtown Waukesha — the heart of countless cherished family gatherings. Debbie took great pride in her home, tending to it with the same love and care she gave to everyone in her life. That house wasn’t just a place; it was a reflection of her — warm, welcoming, and full of life.

Debbie was born in Milwaukee, Wisconsin, to Zigmund Gasior and Carolee Lembke. She later moved to Waukesha, where she spent the rest of her life building deep roots and lifelong connections. After graduating from Waukesha South High School, Debbie began her career in banking — a field in which she thrived for over 40 years. Her work ethic, dependability, and warm spirit made her a valued colleague and friend to many. Upon retiring, she embraced a new chapter of life, one focused fully on the people and passions she held dearest.

Debbie is survived by her children, Pamela O'Leske and Angela Perdew, her son-in-law Jacob O'Leske; her former spouse Michael Perdew; her grandchildren, Spencer, Alise, and Madisen Hayssen, and Mia and Riley O'Leske; her parents, Zigmund Gasior and Carolee Lembke; her siblings, Diane Skabroud, Laurie Gasior, and Gary Gasior; her brothers-in-law Douglas Skabroud and Steven Gunn; and many loving nieces, nephews, and dear friends who meant the world to her.

Debbie was a woman of many passions. She lovingly maintained her yard, finding peace in the simple beauty of nature. On the golf course, she found fun in the game and even more in the company. She had a deep love for animals, and her enthusiasm for board games made every family night something to look forward to — filled with laughter, light-hearted competition, and lasting memories. She also had quiet a love for music, often filling her home with some of her favorite songs. And she adored the color pink — any and all shades of it — surrounding herself with its warmth, from soft blush to vibrant fuchsia, a reflection of her joyful, spirited nature. Above all, Debbie was deeply devoted to her family. She was a loving daughter, a caring sister, and a fiercely dedicated mom to her daughters, Pam and Angie. Her love was constant, her support unwavering. She was their greatest cheerleader, most trusted confidante, and forever their safe place. And when she became a grandmother, she embraced the role with every ounce of her heart. To her grandchildren, she was a storyteller, a hug-giver, a cookie-baker, a secret-keeper — and someone they each held close as one of the most special people in their world. They absolutely adored her, and that love was returned a hundredfold.

Debbie had a special fondness for cardinals, often pointing them out as signs of beauty and presence. Now, each time one appears, her family will smile, knowing she’s near — watching over them with the same love and grace that defined her life. Her spirit will live on, not just in cardinals, but in flowers blooming in spring, in laughter around the game table, and in every simple, beautiful moment she taught us to treasure.

Though her passing brings immense sorrow, it is also wrapped in gratitude — for a life lived fully, for memories that will never fade, and for a love that remains forever. This is not goodbye, but see you again someday, in every gentle breeze, every cardinal’s song, and every shared smile.

We love you, Mom. You always told us you loved us to the moon and back — and now we say it back to you, with all our hearts. Always and forever.

A Celebration of Life will be held on Saturday, July 12, 2025, from 1:00 to 3:00 PM at Mission Lake Senior Condominiums, N50 W34835 Wisconsin Ave., Okauchee, WI 53069. Family and friends are warmly invited to attend and share memories, stories, and support as we honor a life well lived.