Obituary for Deborah Lynn Hanlon-Werlhof

It is with heartfelt sorrow that we announce the passing of Deborah Lynn Hanlon-Werlhof, beloved wife, stepmother, sister, and grandmother, who peacefully departed this life on September 17, 2025, in Olympia, Washington, after a courageous battle with cancer. Born on April 5, 1950, Deborah lived a life rich in love, service, and dedication to others.

A graduate of Evergreen College, with a Bachelor of Arts in Interpersonal and Group Communication and Psychology in 1986, and a Master of Science in Organizational Learning from George Mason University in 2000. Her academic achievements laid a strong foundation for her distinguished career in the medical field and public service.

Deborah’s professional journey began as a Supervisor at the University of Washington's Radiation Oncology unit from 1973 to 1976. She later became the Director for Dr. John E. Flynn Cancer Center in Everett, WA, from 1976 to 1982. Her remarkable ability to connect, guide, and nurture led her to a role as an HR Specialist for the State of Washington in 1987, before becoming the President of her own consulting firm, Deb Hanlon & Associates, from 1988 to 1991. She concluded her career as an Organizational Development Specialist and Employee Involvement Consultant with the FAA and DoD (Gov’t), serving her community with diligence until her retirement in 2013.

Deborah was an embodiment of kindness and loyalty, dedicating her life not just to her work but, most importantly, to the family she cherished deeply. She is survived by her loving husband, Christopher K. Werlhof, and her stepsons, Christopher Werlhof II, Brandon Werlhof, Trevor Werlhof, along with stepdaughter Morgan Rainwater as well as her stepsister, Ann Maxwell. Her warmth and generosity of spirit will be missed by her twelve grandchildren, niece and nephew who were the joy of her life. She is preceded in death by her parents, Betty Jane and Herbert Howard Hanlon, and her brother Terry Hanlon. 

Beyond her professional achievements, Deborah found immense joy in the simple pleasures of life, whether she was spending cherished moments with her grandchildren, traveling, camping, or cultivating her beloved garden. Her passions were matched only by her commitment to uplifting those around her—providing a source of inspiration and unwavering support to friends, colleagues, and family alike.

A memorial ceremony to celebrate Deborah's remarkable life will be held on April 5, 2026, at Funeral Alternatives, located at 455 North Street SE, Tumwater, WA 98501 starting at 1pm in-person or live stream. If you would like to RSVP see below.

The service will be streamed at: https://client.tribucast.com/tcid/f26015120547228

As we remember Deborah, let us honor her legacy of compassion, professionalism, and love—the very essence of the wonderful person she was to all who had the privilege of knowing her. In lieu of flowers, the family requests that condolences be expressed through acts of kindness in her memory.

Her light will forever remain in our hearts.