Deborah Ann Banta

Deborah "Debbie" Ann Banta (nee Engelbrecht), of Saint Peters, MO, passed away Sunday, August 31, 2025 at the age of 74. Beloved wife of Charles J. Banta; cherished daughter of the late Robert and Alice Engelbrecht; daughter-in-law of the late Francis Banta, dear sister of DeLite Bielicke and Diane (Allan) Buckley; treasured aunt of Allison (Shane) Wussow, Robert Buckley and James (Barrett) Bielicke; great-aunt of Kyleigh Wussow, Beckett Wussow, Brayden Buckley, Carter Bielicke and Brooke Bielicke; Deborah is also survived by Charles’ children, Charles E. Banta, Vicky Marie Banta (Jennifer Williams), and Johnathan Dean Julius. Deborah was a dear niece, cousin and friend to many. Many loving cousins, aunts, and uncles have gone before her to their eternal resting place.

After carrying the cross of several autoimmune diseases beginning in 2022, Debbie fought every step of the way with remarkable strength, even as her life was turned upside down. She will be remembered as a beacon of hope and an inspiration to all who knew her. Debbie and her husband of 40 years shared a true love story, full of travel, adventures, family, and pets, their bond enduring through all seasons of life. She loved children and dogs, had a huge heart of gold, and was loyal and unwavering—a true pillar of her family. Throughout her career, she worked in retail, mainly at Metro Lighting, where her dedication shone. Deborah was dearly loved and will be greatly missed by all who knew her.