Obituary

Deborah Jean Gartner-Saenz

May 25, 1955 - October 6, 2024

Deborah Jean Gartner-Saenz passed away in the comfort of her own home on October 6, 2024, at the age of 69. Born May 25, 1955, in Durham, North Carolina, she grew up in Lincoln, Nebraska attending East High School and Nebraska Wesleyan University.

Deb was the eldest of six siblings and was a lifelong learner who loved to read and travel. She worked at Crete Carrier for 7 years then another 7 years at a car dealership in San Diego, California, before marrying Carlos Gerardo Saenz and moving to Texas. They returned to Lincoln to raise their two boys where she continued working at St. Elizabeth hospital until retirement in 2019. Deb was a devoted mother, loving daughter and loyal sister. She was a pillar for the family, a pleasure to be around and maintained a great sense of humor through life’s hardships. She will be remembered for her kind soul, strong work ethic and calm demeanor.

Deb is preceded in death by her parents Lee & Lois Gartner, husband Carlos Saenz, sister Wendy Gartner and brother Sam Gartner.

Surviving are sons Lee and Ryan Saenz, brother Joseph (Jeanne) Gartner, brother Michael (LoRae) Gartner and sister Julie Marca.

The family will host a private memorial service, condolences can be sent to: DGSMemorial@mail.com

Share a Memory or Condolence

September 24, 2025

I loved seeing Deb when I worked at St Elizabeth! She was a wonderful lady who was very family oriented. I was lucky enough to be her neighbor and know her boys as well. She was my confidant with our boys shenanigans. I am so sorry to just hear that Deb passed Love and peace to Lee and Ryan and all her family

– Melissa Stamps
October 30, 2024

I remember visiting Aunt Deb, Ryan and Lee when we would go up to Lincoln. She was fun to be around and had a great sense of humor.

– Ben Gartner
October 19, 2024

This one hurts. I will miss Deb so much. We were supposed to do lunch and I so wish we did. I will miss all of our conversations.

– Tammy Knaub
October 19, 2024

I worked with Deb at St. Elizabeth she was so very special. Many prayers to her family.

– Angie Small

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