Deborah Hjortedal

Deborah Marie (Skinner) Hjortedal

Debbie was born in Bushnell, Illinois, February 27,1935 to Freeman and Zella Skinner. She spent the early years of her life in the vicinity of Bushnell. After the war, the family relocated to Twin Falls, Idaho, in time for Debbie to attend junior and senior high in Twin Falls. After graduating high school, Debbie moved on to nurses’ training at St. Alphonsus Hospital in Boise, Id. While in nurses’ training, she met the love of her life, Erling (Hjort) Hjortedal who was teaching in nearby Meridian. The day after graduating nurses’ training, Debbie and Hjort were married; a marriage that lasted 51 years.

They lived in Boise for about a year – long enough for their daughter, Kathy, to be born. Then, they moved to Spokane where they lived for the rest of their lives. They had two sons, Dave and Don. When the kids were in grade school, they purchased lake property to “park their travel trailer” for easier camping opportunities. It didn’t take long to conclude they needed a cabin. All family members participated in building the cabin. It is still a family favorite spot.

Over the years, Debbie worked at the Deaconess Nursery (now NICU), Shriners’ Hospital, various doctors’ offices, and a few weeks at Lutherhaven. She enjoyed gardening, being at the lake, and being a Bible study leader at church.

Debbie is preceded in death by her parents, siblings, husband, and her son, Dave. Debbie has 5 grandchildren, 13 great-grandchildren and 1 great-great-grandchild. A memorial service will be held at Riverview Retirement Community. On Monday, June 30 at 1:00 PM. There will be a graveside service on Tuesday, July 1 at 10:30 AM.

Memorials can be sent to Gertie Hjortedal Nursing Scholarship at Riverview Retirement Community.