Dixie DeBlauw

Dixie Lou (Unger) DeBlauw, beloved wife, mother, grandmother, and great-grandmother passed away peacefully on Tuesday, July 15, 2025, surrounded by family. Known for her unwavering faith, strong dedication to family, and selfless love for others, Dixie was a woman deeply cherished by all who knew her.

Born on December 30,1945, she was the oldest daughter to Lawrence and Norene (Beller) Unger in Norfolk, Nebraska. She was baptized and confirmed at Sacred Heart Church in Norfolk, Nebraska. She graduated from Norfolk Catholic Schools in 1964 and went on to Mount Marty College in Yankton, South Dakota for one year to study nurse’s training.

She married James L. DeBlauw in 1967 and they moved to Mapleton, Iowa where they raised their family, and she worked as a nurse’s aide. Jim and Dixie moved to Schuyler, Nebraska in 1990 where Jim became a principal and she began her work as a paraeducator. They retired to Harlan, Iowa in 2010 to be closer to grandchildren.

A devoted volunteer, she gave generously of her time to her Catholic faith. This was evident in her devotion and commitment to Jim throughout his Deacon Ministry. She was an avid reader and belonged to the local book club. For many years, she cheered on her grandkids’ at their multiple sporting events - rarely missing an activity. She was a loyal Husker fan as well.

She enjoyed her grandchildren and great-grandchildren immensely where she would entertain them with fun and games. She was known for baking cookies, sharing riddles, and having a home remedy for all situations. Dixie had many interests, but her deepest joy in life was her family. Nothing gave her greater pleasure than spending time with her children, grandchildren, great grandchildren, and her siblings and sharing in their life.

Dixie is survived by her husband of 58 years, Jim DeBlauw; children, Lori (Travis) Castle, Jenny (Jeff) Moser, and Tom (Cassie) DeBlauw; grandchildren: Ty (Corina) Castle, Trey Castle, Tori Castle, Jordyn (Kyle) Juhl, Jared Moser, Joey Moser, Noah DeBlauw, and Emily DeBlauw; great-grandchildren, Scottie Castle and Campbell Juhl; siblings, Dan (Dorothy) Unger; Maxine Bauermeister; Peggy (Bob) Hofbauer; Mary Ann (Ric) Rotherham; Beverly (Rick) Benson; Mike (Kris)Unger; many nieces and nephews, other family members and friends.

In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by her brother LeRoy Unger, nephew Adam Unger, brothers-in-law Jerry Bauermeister and Arlyn DeBlauw and sister-in-law Marie DeBlauw.

Dixie’s life was a testament to love, kindness, and faith. She will be forever missed.