Deanne Opstad

Deanne Opstad of Hoschton, GA died suddenly on December 6, 2023. She was born in Minneapolis, Minnesota in 1937 to David Byers and Grace Byers. She was the oldest of five children (all girls!) She graduated from West High School in South Minneapolis and attended Mankato State. Deanne had a flair for the dramatic and loved all things music and dance.

She met her husband of 64 years, Christopher (Topper) Opstad at the Auto Club of Minnesota. They started their new lives in Minneapolis, having 2 children (Christopher James and Rebecca Lynn). After moving to one of the first subdivision homes built in Apple Valley, they set out for the East Coast in 1965. Later living in Huntington, NY and Washington Crossing, PA, they eventually made Georgia their home in 1968.

Deanne worked as a stay-at-home mom, a retail salesperson at Richs, and eventually created a successful career as a Mortgage Loan Officer and business owner. She retired as a VP for Financial Freedom mortgage at the age of 75. She was also extremely active in local dance and theater. As a founding member of the Stone Mountain Players, she acted and produced community plays, often involving her whole family. In retirement, she continued to be very active with a dance group and Tai Chi classes in her neighborhood.

She is survived by her husband Topper, children Christopher (Kathi) and Rebecca, grandchildren Jarred Opstad (Christi), Brett Opstad (Emy), Lauren Opstad (Zach), Cory Schenck, Anna Schenck, Adam Schenck, Chris Freeman (Rene’), Chad Freeman (Danielle), great-grandchildren Otis, Avery, Alex, and Grady, sisters Sandra Kennedy, Elsie Salhaus, Mary Dwinell, and Susie Fode, as well her pet King Charles Spaniel (Gracie).

A celebration of life will be held at a future date.

Memorial Park Braselton Funeral Home, 5257 Green Street Hwy 53, Braselton, Georgia 30517 is in charge of arrangements.  Send on-line condolences to www.memorialparkfuneralhomes.com.