Cecelia Durbin

Cecelia Durbin, age 72, passed away peacefully on November 20, 2025, surrounded by the love of her family at The Sycamore in River Falls, Wisconsin.

Born on February 8, 1953, in Plentywood, Montana, to Robert and Valencia (Dolly) Durbin, Cece grew up with a deep appreciation for the simple, beautiful things in life. From an early age, she was surrounded by music her father, Bob, often played for the family, and the album he later recorded became one of her most treasured keepsakes. His music stayed with her throughout her life, shaping her own love for songs, concerts, and the joy of sharing music with the people she loved.

Cecelia had a gentle, free-spirited way about her. She loved being outdoors, taking slow nature walks, admiring flowers, and finding peace in the changing scenery around her. Road trips to national parks brought her so much happiness, especially her visit to Lair o’ the Bear Park near Denver, Colorado.

She enjoyed live music, attending concerts whenever she could, and held a special place in her heart for the Red Rocks Amphitheatre. Whether she was listening to her dad’s album or standing under the stars at a concert, music was her way of staying connected, to her memories, to her family, and to herself.

Above all, Cece loved her family. She adored her grandson and cherished every moment spent with him. Time with her children, relatives, and friends filled her life with laughter, comfort, and purpose. She also proudly took part in Alzheimer’s walks, supporting a cause meaningful to her and reflecting her compassionate spirit.

Cecelia will be remembered for her warmth, her love of music and nature, and the way she carried a quiet, heartfelt joy into every part of her life.

Cece is survived by her sons, Lewis Tollefson, and Leif (Katie) Tollefson, grandson Ander, step-mother, Carolyn Durbin, siblings, Toni (Scott) Harvey, DeAnna Christiansen, Sheila Dunn, Jay (Shery) Durbin, friends, family, step-brothers and sisters, and many nieces and nephews.

She is preceded in death by, her parents, Robert and Valencia (Dolly) Durbin, siblings Warren, and Reed Durbin.

A Memorial Service for CeCe will take place on December 2, 2025 at 11:30am at the O’Connell Family Funeral Home in Prescott, with visitation starting at 11:00am. Burial will follow at Pine Glen Cemetery in Prescott.

Memorials are preferred to th Alzheimer's Association.

Arrangements are entrusted to O’Connell Family Funeral Home and Cremation Services of Prescott. For more information or to share a memory, please visit www.oconnellfuneralhomes.com or call 715-262-5404.