Debra Ann “Ceezan” Matchie-Wakolee, 64, of Hiawatha, KS, passed away Wednesday, December 25, 2019 at Maple Heights Nursing Home. She was born February 21, 1955 in Holton, KS, the daughter of Amil and Regina (McKinney) Matchie.

          Debra graduated from Holton High School in 1973 and attended Haskell Junior College and Highland Community College. She also attended Washburn University, earning her Bachelors Degree.

          In 1975 Debra worked as an Administrative Assistant for the State Office in Washington D.C. She was a Financial Aid Officer for Haskell University. Later she was an Administrative Assistant in social work for Kickapoo Reservation and J.O.M. Coordinator for Prairie Band Potawatomi Reservation.

          Debra was a member of the Prairie Band Potawatomi Nation and Drum Religion.

          She married Richard Wakolee; they later divorced.

          Survivors include 7 children, Heather Matchie (Mike) of Topeka, KS, Dawn Matchie (Skup) of the Potawatomi Reservation and Valerie Blackbird-Maguire (Chris) of Oklahoma, Wishkno Wakole (Justine) of Mayetta, KS, Charli Wakole (Kevin) of Horton, Carmen Wakole (Jon) of Horton, KS and Gonk Wakole (Amber) of Horton, KS; 4 brothers, Jason Matchie of Topeka, KS, Leland Matchie of Mayetta, KS, Billy Matchie of Mayetta, KS and Mark Matchie of Topeka, KS; 30 grandchildren and 3 great-grandchildren.

          Viewing will be Friday evening at Ma-wah-quah’s, 15320 Q Rd, Mayetta, KS 66509. Drum Services will be Saturday evening, December 28, 2019 at the Danceground Building. Burial will be Sunday afternoon at Danceground Cemetery. Mercer Funeral Home in Holton is in charge of arrangements. To leave a special message for the family, please visit www.mercerfuneralhomes.com.