Debra Kay Harder

Debra “Deb” (Wilkinson) Harder, 65 years of age, of Lincoln passed away on Wednesday, January 7, 2026 at Bryan Medical Center West in Lincoln. She was born on April 22, 1960, to David and June (Porter) Wilkinson in Beatrice. Deb graduated from Beatrice High School. On October 30, 1981, she was united in marriage to Bill Harder in Beatrice. Two children were born to this union, Max and Jamie.

Deb spent many years on the family farm, raising cattle and working the fields—work she genuinely loved and took great pride in. Later, after moving to Lincoln, her passions shifted to caring for her meticulously kept lawn and faithfully babysitting Jamie’s two dogs, who helped her “keep the neighborhood in line.” Deb began a second career with Ritchie Bros. Auctioneers, where she worked for more than 20 years.

Deb was a devoted mother and grandmother. She loved following her children throughout the Midwest, spending countless hours on bleachers at football, volleyball, and basketball games, as well as at racetracks. No track was ever too far, and getting home late was never a concern if it meant cheering on her son, Max. She also cherished traveling to support her daughter, Jamie, at every sporting event.

Deb took immense pride in her grandchildren, Emma and Noah, and loved watching them participate in all their activities—from soccer, football, volleyball, and basketball to racing. She especially treasured the time spent with them, making them laugh, listening to their stories, and cheering them on with the same unwavering dedication she gave her children.

When she wasn’t traveling to support her family, Deb could often be found sitting in her backyard, watching television and enjoying a peaceful evening—content in the simple moments she valued most.

Deb is survived by her children, Max (Andrea) Harder of Beatrice and Jamie Harder of Lincoln; her grandchildren, Emma and Noah; her siblings, Donna (James) Seitz, Janice Kruse, and Duane (Joyce) Wilkinson; and numerous nieces and nephews. She was preceded in death by her parents, David and June Wilkinson; and her nephew, Chase Kruse.

Deb will be remembered for her steadfast devotion to her family, her love of animals, and the quiet joy she found in simply being present for the people she loved most.

Memorial Services will be held at 11:00 AM Monday, January 12, 2026 at Harman-Wright Mortuary in Beatrice with Chaplain Sharon Schuster officiating. Prior interment will be held at 9:00 AM Monday, January 12, 2026 in the Mount Pleasant Cemetery northwest of Burchard. Visitation will be held at Harman-Wright Mortuary in Beatrice on Sunday, January 11, 2026 from noon to 8 PM with family greeting friends from 4 to 5:30 PM. Memorials are suggested to the family’s choice in care of the mortuary. Harman-Wright Mortuary & Crematory in Beatrice in charge of arrangements.

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