Debra A. Kohout Gillard, 59

Debra A. Kohout Gillard, age 59, of New Prague, died unexpectedly after a brief illness on Tuesday, April 4, 2023, at Mayo Clinic Health System Hospital, Mankato. Deb was born on July 23, 1963 in New Prague to Martin J. and Shirley M. (Witt) Kohout.  She graduated from New Prague High School and went on to attain her early childhood education degree from Rasmussen.  Deb met her soul mate, Larry Schoenbauer, 16 years ago on Valentine’s Day and the two have been together ever since.  Deb could be found most recently as the assistant manager at HyVee.  Her greatest joy and her lifelong interest were her grandchildren, attending their sporting events religiously and making sure they had a well-supplied candy source!  She was the epitome of selflessness, giving far more than she ever took back, always putting everyone else’s problems before her own.  She was stubbornly independent, living life on her terms.  She enjoyed reading, camping, and especially riding motorcycles with Larry.  The two planned many trips together.  Her kindness and the joy that she spread to those she loved will be missed by all  who knew her.

 Deb is survived by her partner, Larry Schoenbauer of New Prague; children, Matt (Jayda Badger) Gillard of New Prague, Andy (Kristy Kay) Gillard of Lonsdale, Megan (Mark Rothfork) Denzer of New Prague, Kevin (Nicole) Gillard of Lonsdale, Mike Gillard of New Prague, Jillisa (Chase) Schoenbauer of LaCrosse, WI, Devin Schoenbauer of New Prague; grandchildren, Mackenzie, Nick, Jackson, Madison, Greyson, Easton, Emerson, & Everly; brother, Tom (Tara) Kohout of McGrath, MN.  She is preceded in death by her parents.

 A Celebration of Life Service will be held Monday, April 10, 2023 at 3:00 PM at Bruzek Funeral Home with Father George Grafsky officiating.  Visitation will take place at the funeral home from 1:00 – 3:00 p.m.  Burial will follow service at St. Wenceslaus Cemetery.  

bruzekfuneralhome.com