Leanne Barnes Deuman

Leanne Barnes Deuman, 74, of Sault Ste. Marie, Michigan, passed away peacefully in Grayling, Michigan, on the morning of March 29, 2026. Born Leanne Kay Barnes on October 7, 1951, in Sault Ste. Marie, Michigan, she was the daughter of Anne Welsh Barnes and Wayne Barnes. She was raised on Amanda Street alongside her sisters, Susan and Beth, and remained deeply rooted in the Sault community throughout her life. Leanne attended Lincoln Elementary School, Sault Area Junior High School, and Sault Area High School, graduating in 1970. She went on to earn her Bachelor of Arts in English from Lake Superior State University and later graduated from Thomas M. Cooley Law School in 1982. She was admitted to the Michigan Bar on November 22, 1982, beginning what would become a successful legal career. On April 25, 1981, just before graduating law school, Leanne married the love of her life, Gary Deuman. The two met while living in the same apartment complex on Spruce Street and built a life together grounded in family, loyalty, and a deep love for home. They shared 45 years of marriage and raised their two children, Matt and Betsy, in the community they cherished. In 1982, Leanne joined the Veum Law Firm after introducing herself to Thomas Veum and asking whether he had an opening at the firm, Tom simply asked when she could start. In classic Leanne fashion, she created her own opportunity. She went on to practice law from her office on Ashmun Street for more than 40 years and became a highly respected attorney in Sault Ste. Marie. Leanne devoted her legal career to helping people through some of the most difficult moments of their lives. Her practice focused on civil matters, including marital and family issues, child protection cases, wills, and estates. One of the most notable cases of her career involved representing clients living in the Charlotte Beach area along the St. Mary’s River. Through years of advocacy, the case ultimately reached the federal appeals court in Cincinnati, where it was argued before a three-judge panel and decided in her clients’ favor. Even after retirement, Leanne’s dedication to the law and to service continued. She later returned to serve as a judge for the Tribe, bringing her fairness and wisdom to the bench. While Leanne’s professional accomplishments were many, those who knew and loved her will remember her just as much for her personality. At home, Leanne was a fabulous host who loved entertaining and bringing people together. For many years, Gary and Leanne hosted an annual Christmas Eve party that became a cherished tradition for family and close friends. Leanne was passionate about the arts and served on the Board of Directors for the Soo Theatre for three years. She loved music, especially Joni Mitchell and the Rolling Stones. Leanne also loved reading and was a devoted member of her book club for more than 30 years. Her love of books and thoughtful conversation inspired her daughter to start a book club in Seattle that has now continued for 12 years. She enjoyed summer days at the cabin, Fourth of July celebrations around the bay, and long conversations with friends. Leanne loved animals of all kinds and rode horses, had many cats and dogs growing up, and raised four incredible family dogs, Cookie, Rocky, Bowzer, and Pepper. More than anything, Leanne will be remembered for her willingness to help, her wisdom, and her loyalty. She leaves behind a remarkable professional legacy, but an even greater personal one in the family and friends who loved her deeply. Leanne is survived by her husband, Gary Deuman; her children, Matt Deuman and Betsy Deuman; her sisters, Susan LaCross and Beth Pupek; her brother-in-law, Brian Deuman; her sisters-in-law, Dianne Madsen and Sharon Deuman; and her dear lifelong friends Michelle Ribant, Jeanne Cooper, Ann Marinoni, Theila Gagliardi and Nora Dobias, along with many nieces, nephews, extended family members, friends, former clients, and colleagues. She was preceded in death by her mother, Anne Welsh Barnes; her father, Wayne Barnes; and her dear friend, Ronnie Conboy. A funeral service for Leanne will be held on Thursday, April 9, 2026, at First United Presbyterian Church. Visitation will begin at 9:30 a.m., with the funeral service at 11:00 a.m., followed by a luncheon. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made In Leanne’s name to the Chippewa County Animal Shelter and/or Soo Theatre Project. Condolences may be given to the family at www.familylifefh.com. Obituary as submitted by family.

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Leanne Barnes Deuman

October 7, 1951 - March 29, 2026