Dorothy M. DeBilzan, age 89, of Alexandria, passed away peacefully with her husband of 71 years by her side, on Tuesday, February 3, 2026, at Grand Arbor Senior Living.

A memorial service for Dorothy will take place at a later date

Dorothy Marie DeBilzan was born on June 28, 1936, to George and Matilda (Heinert) Wetsch in Mandan, North Dakota. She was raised on a farm with her two sisters and brother before the family moved to Brandon, Minnesota where the family owned and operated the Wetsch’s cafe. While working at the cafe she met the love of her life and on September 17, 1955, Dorothy married Delmar DeBilzan at Holy Rosary Catholic Church in Detroit Lakes. When Delmar was drafted, Dorothy traveled with him as they began their life together and started their family. Following his honorable discharge, they settled in North St. Paul, Minnesota where they raised their five children. Dorothy was deeply involved in her children’s lives, actively participating in their school activities and welcoming their friends as part of the family. The family shared many special memories over the years traveling together to destinations across the US. After their children were grown, Dorothy and Delmar moved to Atlanta where Delmar finished out his 42-year career with Coca-Cola. Following Delmar’s retirement, the couple moved to South Carolina then traveled the world together visiting destinations including China, Tahiti, and Europe. Dorothy enjoyed golfing and especially loved keeping up with her grandchildren and their activities, finding great joy in her family. The family remained connected to the lakes community through their home on Lake Victoria, Alexandria. Dorothy’s strength, devotion, and love for her family were evident throughout her life and will be remembered always.

Dorothy was preceded in death by her parents; her brother, Arnold Wetsch; and her sister, Ella Amundson.

She is survived by her husband of 71 years, Delmar DeBilzan; her five children, LaVonne (James) Holle, Debra DeBilzan, Charolette (Mark Borgsteede) DeBilzan, Greg (Marti) DeBilzan, and Dennis (Robin Bartelman) DeBilzan; grandchildren, Leah, Rachael, Nathan, Brittany, Aaron, Anna, Julie, Kean, Robert, and Kyle; six great-grandchildren; and her sister, Elaine Wetsch.

Dorothy's family would prefer any sympathy cards be mailed to Lind Family Funeral Home, please. 1623 10th Avenue E, Alexandria, MN 56308.