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Debra Banaszak Obituary
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Memories and Condolences
for Debra Banaszak
Lakisha Tucker
March 7, 2016
It has been a long hard 10 years, many sleepless nights and days upon days of what if's. I will never forget you and I pray for your Family and Mark on a regular.
If anyone can and is willing to tell me where she is buried I would love to go and visit her. ([email protected])
Lynne Neibert
November 20, 2013
Prayer Shawls 4 Fallen Soldiers ([email protected]) is an organization with groups throughout the country who work to send handmade prayer shawls and/or lap robes to families who have lost a loved one while serving our country. Members of Trindle Spring Lutheran Church would like to extend our sincere sympathy and to honor your loved one's sacrifice and memory by sending our prayers and comfort through a prayer gift which will be mailed to you. If you are interested, please contact me at [email protected] with the names and addresses of those who would like to receive one and which gift they would like to receive. We will send our gift as soon as possible. Also, if you know of any other families who are grieving the loss of a loved on who died while serving our country, please pass along my e-mail address. May God bless you and comfort you in the days ahead. Sincerely, Lynne
Michelle Wiggley
October 18, 2013
So its about that time. The time when I had to say goodbye to a good friend and leader. "Hey Lt, its Wiggley. I love you and I miss you, but I know God needed you in heaven, so he had to take you. But know this, this earth is very lonely without you."
Peggy Childers
October 16, 2013
To the family and friends of 1st Lt. Debra A. Banaszak:
Always remembering Debra. "Some gave all."
Ron Dombkowski
May 28, 2012
Thank You for your service, God Bless You, Your Family and the USA.
May 12, 2012
Heroes to me. I admire women who are or have served in the military. I thank Debra Banaszak tremendously for her service to this country and the sacrifice she made for this country. I am sorry for what her family has endured but hope they are on a path to healing.
michelle wiggley
January 17, 2012
I Love you Lt B. I hate that you are not here but i know that you are in a better place.
Peggy Childers
October 28, 2011
To the family and friends of 1st Lt. Debra A. Banaszak:
Please accept my remembrance of Debra on the anniversary of her passing and know that she will never be forgotten.
Julio Rodriguez
September 1, 2011
To the families of our American Heroes,
I want to thank each of you for your personal
sacrifices on behalf of my family and America.
May God comfort your souls and bring peace in
your hearts that your loss is not in vain.
God Bless our valiant warriors families in the
ages to come.
RIP courageous ones!
Psalm 25:20
A greatful Veteran
MSgt USAF (Ret)
Vietnam 64,65,66,68-6
mike banaszak
January 26, 2011
Deb you will always hold a place in my heart and I will do my best to watch over and guide our son mark to become a good man. I will always love you. Mike
Elizabeth Raab
January 15, 2011
Your legacy will forever live on in the hearts of those who knew you and shared in your struggle to protect our country and the ultimate sacrifice you gave so that we can be grateful for what we have. Your family, friends, loved ones and fellow soldiers will stay in my thoughts and prayers.
A Proud Military Mom.
Carol Palermo
October 29, 2010
Missing you today on the 5th anniversary of your passing. The sadness and loss never goes away. I still turn to share a thought, a laugh, a hug. You were mine and then you were gone. The soul and the heart does not understand or accept. I love you still, Auntie
Peggy Childers
October 28, 2010
To the family and friends of 1st Lt. Debra A. Banaszak:
Remembering Debra on the anniversary of her passing. May our fallen heroes never be forgotten!
Peggy Childers
"Don't Let The Memory Of Them Drift Away"
www.IraqWarHeroes.org
April 28, 2010
I am missing you today...so much I want to tell you...so much life to share. How sad for both of us. Auntie
April 28, 2010
I still miss you and think of you often. SCCSD598 to SCCSD590.
Fred Hammonds
April 27, 2010
Thank you for your dedicated service and may you be with god in peace.
Fred
Kenna Larra
May 25, 2009
”Honor and Remember” - “Project Compassion” We love our Soldiers! We love our country and we cannot express enough love and compassion to the families of our fallen heroes. War does not discriminate – It breaks our hearts to see the faces of the fallen. We want to give this gift to you. We are a 501c3 nonprofit organization! Over 1,450 portraits have been completed and shipped to the parents and or spouse - at no cost as this is a gift from one American to another!
Contact us directly at [email protected] or go to www.heropaintings.com . If you have already had a portrait completed, we pray that you are enjoying the portrait and God Bless You.
Sincerely and Respectfully,
Kenna
May 25, 2009
Dewey Dear, We decorated the graves this holiday weekend and it is still such a shock to see your name on that stone. You and your grandfather, great grandfather and uncle are honored and remembered today for the service to our great country. I look across the cemetery and see the flags and white crosses of other fallen soldiers. I am one of many who have come to honor our loved ones here in this small country resting place through the years. So many wars and so many dear ones lost. My heart goes out to the families who loved and lost someone precious as I did. I am so very proud you were mine. Love, Auntie
Debbie
May 24, 2009
Thank you and rest in peace.
D Holmes
May 24, 2009
Debra, you know now that you will see your family again and that they will see you. I hope your family knows this as well. To Debra's family, I know you will be reunited with her again. It is but a short time in this earthly life.
Sandi Gilmer
May 21, 2009
There have been times I have allowed my thoughts to wander where they please, anf for as long as they please. I was in the 1035th with Deb. She was usually the first person to attempt to boost morale. During a time when deployment can be most difficult; she kept others moving foward by doing so herself. She was a born leader, and led by example. As Memorial Day approaches (a day which is painful for me) I still let tears fall because I pray that my brothers and sisters in uniform know they are not forgotten. I pray the families feel remembered as well. May Our Father touch your lives and bless you.
Julie Otten
March 4, 2009
To the Family and Friends of Debra Banaszak, My thoughts and prayers continue with you.
Carol Palermo
January 4, 2009
Another New Year and once more we leave you behind. Miss you and wonder what life would have brought to all of us if you had lived. It hurts to start another year without you...but I keep your memory safe in my heart. My love always, Auntie
Bryan Scroggins
January 2, 2009
I served in Iraq with LT Banaszak in 2005 with the 1035th. It's been a while since she passed but I still find myself thinking of her and her family. She truly will never be forgotten.
SGT Bryan Scroggins
Camp Phoenix Afghanistan
In Memory of Debra A. Banaszak ~ (Debra Estep)
October 29, 2008
Holding you all in my thoughts and prayers.
I did not know Debra, but I am remembering
her service and sacrifice. She is my hero. !
~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~
The Other Side
i'm over on the other side
where life and death softly divide.
left my skin and bones behind
now i'm over on the other side.
can you feel me there with you?
my breath is gone but i'm not through.
loved you then and i still do
from over on the other side.
i can fly. really fly.
below the earth ... all through the sky.
tell em all i did not die.
i'm just over on the other side.
it's good here on the other side.
the sweetest songs...the bluest skies.
thank you for the tears you cried
but it's good here on the other side.
i can fly. really fly. below the earth...all through the sky.
tell em all i did not die.
i'm just over on the other side
the world is smaller than a needle's eye.
where life and death softly divide.
when you leave your skin and bones behind
i'll be waiting on the other side.
i can fly. really fly. below the earth ... all through the sky.
go tell em all i did not die.
i'm just over on the other side.
Song lyrics by Don Conoscenti
C Desert Muse/SESAC
www.donconoscenti.com
(Used with permission)
“I hope it brings great comfort to any and all.
Peace on you. DonCon” 4-2008
The Other Side –
(To hear the song)
http://tinyurl.com/3o8gol
Sincerely,
Deb Estep ~ Ohio
Proud Air Force Mom SSgt Vince – Lackland AFB
Proud Air Force MIL SrA Dana – Randolph AFB
Remembering The Fallen – Blog
http://tinyurl.com/3z8p55
Angel and soldier drawing I have shared here.
http://tinyurl.com/6gey8b
Michael
October 8, 2008
I proudly served with Deb and can say that it was an honor serving with her. May God bless you and your family.
Peggy Childers
September 17, 2008
To the family of 1st Lt. Debra A. Banaszak:
Debra gave the ultimate sacrifice and will be held in the hearts of Americans forever. I cannot and will not let our fallen heroes be forgotten. My deepest sympathy to you. "Some gave all."
Peggy Childers
"Don't Let The Memory Of Them Drift Away"
www.IraqWarHeroes.org
Pastor Frank Noyes
August 20, 2008
Gethsemane Church
1601 Frederick Drive
Pekin IL 61554
Phone – 309-346-7791
Dear family of
1st Lt. Debra A. Banaszak,
We want to say thank you. We understand that no words can be adequate for your sorrow. We certainly do not want to intrude upon your privacy. As Americans we want you to know that we deeply appreciate the ultimate sacrifice your loved one has made for all of us. We also would like for you to be aware that with this letter comes our special concern and prayers for you. We are all safer because young men and women who love their country, and know the value of a free nation, are willing to put themselves in harms way, and lay down their lives to keep this nation free and safe for all of us.
Your sacrifice is also very great. We know that we can give little comfort; however, the knowledge that your loved one did not die in vain, but died in the service of our country, gives each of us a noble example of the value of life, and the responsibility of freedom. We hope this will bring pride and comfort to you.
We at Gethsemane Church believe that there is purpose to life. We send this letter with our deepest appreciation for the greatest of sacrifices, you and your loved one have given to this country. We know it is not enough, but please allow us to assure you that your loved one is not forgotten.
Very Sincerely
FrankG. Noyes (Pastor)
Greater love hath no man than this, that a man lay down his life for his friends.
(Jn. 15:13)
Carol Palermo
July 19, 2008
Hi Dewey Dear. It's Auntie. Phil and I were in Missouri with Mark and your Mom over the 4th of July weekend and your 38th birthday July 5. Your Mom and I talked about you - bittersweet. I would have given years of life to have you with us. I looked out from the guest bedroom window and watched the morning yawn and come to life in the early morning country of Mark's world. What a wonderful legacy you have given him with your passing. I hope in time as he grows older he will appreciate the gift you gave him and what we all had to give in return. He still won't talk about you easily and will not be comforted or give comfort to your Mom. After all this time they are still having a hard time with each other. It's sad to see the years pass and not see what you would have looked like...what memories we would have made together. I just saw Jersey Boys in Chicago ( and know we would have gone together if you were still with us)and when "Oh What a Night/Summer of 67" was performed I smiled and cried because that was our song...we put the top down and cranked the volume up and sang along. Oh the memories and tears and smiles you have left me and the grief that there will be no more. I miss you. Happy Birthday from your family. Love, Auntie
Jamie
July 3, 2008
I proudly served with Deb as a member of the 1035th Maintenance Company. She will never be forgotten by those who served with her.
the Buck family
May 17, 2008
To the family and friends of 1st Lt. Debra A. Banaszak, our thoughts and prayers are with you in your loss. What she has done for our freedom will not be forgotten. May God comfort and bless your family.
May 12, 2008
You are remembered and respected. Thank you 1st Lt Banaszak!
Jeri Davis
February 9, 2008
My heartfelt sympathy goes out to Debra's family. I still have a hard time believing she is gone. We often chatted while we watched our sons practice at JFL in Bethany. She was such a good mom to him. I can remember her standing waiting for him to finish practice. She almost always brought her cocker spaniel with her. You would often see her walking along with her dogs around Wyman Park. I have been thinking about her lately because my son just joined the Navy. He will leave for training this summer after he graduates. My prayers are with your family...
Billy Spencer
January 9, 2008
I found Debbie's name listed a long time back, I think we served together at Camp Grayling Michigan where she was assigned to the Provost Marshal's Office. A very bright, positive young women. I too mourn her loss. My prayers are with you.
Ken Bradley
December 31, 2007
To the family of Debra Banaszak, my deepest, sincere thoughts are with you. My time spent in Vietnam gives me great appreciation to the type of people like Debra.
God Bless you.
Smiling as we like to remember her
November 5, 2007
Deb dressed up for Halloween
November 5, 2007
Auntie
November 3, 2007
Two years ago today on November 3, 2005, I stood by your graveside and mourned as your life was celebrated. I held your mother as she cried and watched your son as he tried not to. It has been a long two years, Dewey. Uncle D and I took autumn decorations to your grave October 28, the day you left us. It is still so hard on all of us to visit with you there. I am sad for the loss of all our tomorrows and never knowing what could have been. I miss our special relationship..no one can ever replace you.
August 19, 2007
There is nothing that I can say or do to take away the pain or bring you peace in your time of sorrow, but I will offer you and your family my heart felt condolences. I also offer you my prayers that in time the pain will easy and the memories of your HERO will carry you through each day and night. I want to thank your HERO, for his/her selfless act of becoming a member of the armed forces, his/her willingness to defend the United States of America, all that we hold sacred and for the sacrifice that will forever be etched in the memories of all those who knew him/her. Though tears can never bring him/her back, we hope that our tears express our gratitude for the sacrifice that he/she made and our sorrow at his/her passing. I believe for every fallen HERO there is a star shining brightly up above to remind us of the precious gift we were given.
Your mission on earth is complete and you are now a member of GOD’s Heavenly armed forces. Stand down brave warrior and take your rightful place in Heaven with all the HEROES who have passed before.
I made a special promise to LE RON A. WILSON, a dear family friend who joined the Army with three other friends, one of whom is my son (Le Ron was killed in action on 07/06/07 at the age of 18) on the day he was laid to rest as I touched his coffin, that I would never forget him nor would I forget those that gave their lives for our country before him, with him and after him and so when I came across www.legacy.com, I thought what a great way to keep my promise to Le Ron, so I will continue to leave tributes in each guest book until the day there is no longer the need to leave these tributes to a FALLEN HERO.
REST IN PEACE, HERO, YOU WILL NEVER BE FORGOTTEN!!
PROUD MOTHER OF A U.S. SOLDIER
Currently stationed in Germany
Althea Barrett(Queens, NY)
July 23, 2007
Thank you for the sacrifice made by 1st Lt Banaszak and the sacrifice made by everyone who loves and misses him! May God bless all of you!!
May 28, 2007
GOD BLESS YOU AND KNOW THAT WE MISS YOU!
S S
February 20, 2007
Dear Debra,
Thank you for protecting and serving our country.
You're a true american hero.
Rest peacefully in heaven sweet angel
Garnet Jenkins
October 28, 2006
Paying tribute to this 1st Lt. Debra A. Banaszak, on this first anniversary of the day she lost her life, while in the service of our country, with a Great Amount of Thanks for her courage, dedication and her service not only to our Country and for Freedom, but as a law enforment officer.
May Debra rest, in the Loving Care of God and know that she Truly is an American Hero.
May God's Loving Grace and Comfort continue to be with the Banaszak family.
Those who Made the Ultimate Sacrifice, So Many and So Young, shall NEVER BE FORGOTTEN.
My brother among them. KIA-Vietnam 1967.
With each new day, may the Lord restore your soul, may you find strength in your faith, comfort in God's love, and peace in knowing this country remembers Debra's sacrifice.
I am deeply sorry for your loss.
Jason Russell
June 12, 2006
Debra is a great person. I went to Officer Basic Course with her. I remember legging it through the woods at Aberdeen Proving Grounds during our training. Debra was always good to get a smile out of when everyone was tired, hot, and misrible. I recently saw a picture of Debra in the Army Times. I am very sorry for your loss. Just know in the brief time I knew her she was happy person that brightened to others around her.
Jason Russell
ROBYN GARSIDE
May 29, 2006
MAY GOD BLESS YOU AND YOURS. I HAVE JUST LEARNED OF YOUR GREAT LOSS AND WISH TO EXPRESS MY DEEPEST SYMPATHIES. PLEASE KNOW THAT THERE ARE PEOPLE OUT HERE WHO DO CARE. HOLD TIGHT TO YOUR TREASURED MEMORIES THAT HER BEAUTIFUL SMILE MAY CONTINUE TO SHINE ON FOR HER LITTLE ONE. I PRAY THAT PEACE WILL FIND YOU ALL SOMEDAY. STAY STRONG AND GODSPEED. SEMPER FI
A PROUD MARINE MOM
MICHELLE WIGGLEY
April 11, 2006
LT BANASZAK WAS ONE OF THE BEST OFFICERS IN 1035TH. I HAD A PROBLEM AND SHE MADE SURE THAT SHE HELPED ME SOLVE IT. WHEN I NEEDED TO TALK SHE WAS ALWAYS THERE. SHE WAS LIKE AN DISTANT AUNT THAT I NEVER THOUGHT I NEEDED BUT CAME TO LOVE. SHE WILL THROUGHLY BE MISSED BY ME. I LOVE YOU LTB AND I HOPE YOU HAVE THE BEST AFTER LIFE THAT YOU DESERVE.
Pat Canfall
April 9, 2006
My condolences to the Banaszak family. Debra may you rest in peace. Thank you for making the ultimate sacrifice in the name of freedom. You have earned your golden halo and wings. May you continue to soar in the heavenly clouds up above.
Frank De Maria Forest Glen M.S.
March 21, 2006
She is a hero. You should be proud!!!
God Bless.
tiffany marrero
March 21, 2006
debra was a saint in many ways that no one will understand except god himself!!!!!!
victoria smith
March 21, 2006
TO THE FAMILY OR FRIENDS OF DEBRA A. BANASZAK SHE WAAS THE REASON WHY I HAVE FREEDOM. MAY GOD BE WITH YOU. LOVE,VICTORIA (FLORDIA)
Denise Terribile
March 6, 2006
My heartfelt sympathy on the loss of your loved one. Thank you for the sacrifice.
March 6, 2006
To the Family of lst Lt. Debra A. Banaszak:
My heart breaks again as I sign yet another guest book of another courgeous young soldier who gave their life so selflessly. We lost our son 12/1/05.
I know first hand there are no words right now that will bring you the comfort and peace you need. Just know that you are not alone. My heart, thoughts, and prayers are with you all as you mourn this loss. We don't know each other, will probably never meet, but will forever be united in the loss of our Heroes. We have, unfortunately joined a group, an ever-growing group of families in this situation. May God grant you peace and strength to get through this and be able once again to smile at a memory rather than have only the tears that flow so easily now. To be so proud of your loved one and so saddened at the same time is a mix of emotions very difficult to deal with. They will never be forgotten, never able to be replaced, but sometime, someday your memories will sustain you. This courageous soldier will forever now be your Angel watching over you all for the rest of your lives. It's what brings me peace and comfort and I hope it will you as well. If you ever want to talk, I'm only an e:mail away. God Bless this courageous soldier and his family.
Pam Adams (SFC Brent Adams, KIA 12/1/05 Ramadi, Iraq)
[email protected]
(Millersville, PA )
Henryk Zaleski (USN-Ret)
March 6, 2006
Rest in peace at your last post in paradise.
Tom Gugliuzza-Smith
February 17, 2006
My heartfelt sympathy to the Banaszak family in the loss of Debra. I did not know Debra, but my heart is broken and I am saddened for your loss of such a fine person and hero. May God bring you peace in your heart as you reflect on all the wonderful memories you hold so close. Please know that you are in my heart and prayers.
I send each of you a hug from my heart.
Love and Peace
Tom
To live in the hearts
of those you leave behind
is never to die"
~Robert Orr~
Dick Naylor
February 15, 2006
To the Parents, Family Members & Friends of Debra:
I, my family, & millions of Americans are quietly grateful for Debra and her service in America's military. There are few words we can share that would soften the loss of Debra, but please accept our THANK YOU for raising and sharing an American Hero.
May her memories sustain each and every one of you as the years go by. May GOD's will use her life as a guidepost for all who knew her.
With sincere appreciation,
Dick Naylor, John 3:16
Lieutenant Colonel, Senior Aviator, U.S. Army, Retired
VietNam Veteran
Deb and Marsha at her going away party, Jan. 2005
January 27, 2006
Vangi &McKaLyne Lunsford
January 26, 2006
Psalm 23
1
The LORD is my shepherd, I shall not be in want.
2
He makes me lie down in green pastures, he leads me beside quiet waters,
3
He restores my soul. He guides me in paths of righteousness for his name's sake.
4
Even though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, I will fear no evil, for you are with me; your rod and your staff, they comfort me.
5
You prepare a table before me in the presence of my enemies. You anoint my head with oil; my cup overflows.
6
Surely goodness and love will follow me all the days of my life, and I will dwell in the house of the LORD forever.
This is a verse that I have found to be comforting to me during my husbands death. Remember that when it seems that no one else is round, God is still there with you! And he will be your rock!
My daughter,McKaLyne, and I send our heartfelt sympathy for your loss! God Bless this warrior, God Bless those whom serve freedom's cause! They are our true HERO's!!!!
If you need anything, please feel free to contact me!!!
Wife & Daughter of the Late
Sgt. Audrey Daron Lunsford
KIA May 23, 2005
DONALD HOUTHOOFD
January 18, 2006
I KNEW DEB VERY WELL WE HAD ALOT OF GOOD TIMES TOGATHER. I WILL MISS YOU VERY MUCH. DEBRA MY GOD LOOK OVER YOU
connie ball
November 29, 2005
I just want you know,I prayed for you,GOD answered, he loves you..I am the momofsoldier daught.an m.p.e-4-specialist- she to served "operation endureing freedom"in qatar/saudi assisting our marines in moveing head quarters frm ft.mcdil fl.to saudi,she to belonged to the army..Iam sorry for your loss and have prayed for her son,and her family it takes so much time and pain to even begin to try to heal,I have pushed the pain aside in my life and ignored the healing please know it is of no help to do that..God Bless You/sincerly momofsoldier2....
Dean & Jennifer Alexander
November 18, 2005
We knew Deb years ago, when she was still married to Bruce. She was a good friend, and served as a brides maid in our wedding. As our careers and personal lives took different paths, we lost touch. It wasn't until I saw a beautiful tribute to Deb at the St. Charles County Sheriff's Office did I know of the tragedy. She was a strong but funny person and will truly be missed by all who knew her.
I'm sure we have photos from that wedding day, and I'll be glad to send them to any who want them. Feel free to contact me at via my e-mail.
Craig Barker
November 14, 2005
I was so sorry to hear about the death of "Lt B" - we served together here at Jefferson Barracks, worked together on a Joint Exercise and became friends - So focused and so professional - She is missed - My regards to the family - Lt Col Barker " Lt Col B"
Cyndi Summers
November 14, 2005
I worked three weeks with Debbie at Jefferson Barracks in August 2004. She was a very enthusiastic, caring, wonderful person to work with. We became friends and kept in touch until she deployed. She spoke highly of her son Mark and her mother. She loved them all very much. Debra will be missed by all. My prayers are with her family and friends.
CW3 Jess LaFentres
November 8, 2005
I served with 1LT Banaszak at the 1035th Maintenance Company at both locations. We worked close on many issues concerning the training of the Unit's Soldiers. She was always focused on the Unit's Mission and the care and welfare of the soldiers under her command. Her diligent efforts and strong leadership skills were admired by all that knew her. I personal respected her courage and ambition to be the best in all situations.
Shane and Kenzie Hart
November 5, 2005
Our son was serving in Kuwait with Debra and her loss has affected him deeply. God Bless her family!
Bonna Salyer
November 4, 2005
Mark, I am so sorry for your loss. We all think of you often. Please call or stop by if you are ever able. We love you and want to do whatever we can to help you through this difficult time, and in the future as well. You are in our prayers.
Carolyn Evans
November 4, 2005
God Bless the family of 1st Lt. Banaszak. She will never be forgotten.
Lesley Schafer-LeBrun
November 4, 2005
Debbie took me to my first concert in Michigan sometime around 1988. It was quite a time. I was only 14, Debbies cousin Jen and I wanted to go to see the Beastie Boys. Debbie, being old enough to drive, aggreed to take take us. At the time the Beasty Boys were being banned all over. I told Debbie and her family my parents said it was ok to go-I lied. At the concert I confided in Debbie that I had not told my parents where I was, and that I was terrified that I would get caught. Well she laughed and said how would you get caught, who would your parents know at a Beastie Boys concert. She was right and made me laugh the rest of the night. I only knew Debbie for a short time in Michigan...she could always make you laugh. I lost my brother in 1992, he was also serving with the US Military when he was killed. His loss was the most difficult thing that I have ever experienced in my life as I know this will be for Debbies family. When I think of Debbie I will always remember that cute smirk she had and goofy memories of her and her cousin Jennifer in Michigan.
Jennifer always told me Debbie had a son, Mark. I thought that was special because that was the name of my brother who was killed.
Elaine & Dave Hughes
November 4, 2005
Barb...Our most sincere heartfelt thoughts and prayers are with you at this tremendously sad time of your life!
Dave & Elaine(Davis)Hughes (Remember you FONDLY from the country club !!!)
J. Gordon
November 3, 2005
Debbie was a kind and thoughtful childhood friend. I wasn't surprised when I heard she went into law enforcement. I am moved by the condolences from people across the U.S. who took the time to write. My condolences to Barbara, Brian, and Mark.
DIANE LARSEN
November 3, 2005
SO SORRY TO HEAR OF DEBRA DYING!
MAY SHE REST IN PEACE! MAY GOD BLESS ALL HER FAMILY AND FRIENDS SHE LEFT BEHIND! ONCE AGAIN I AM VERY SORRY TO HEAR OF HER DEATH!
Nelly Camacho
November 2, 2005
May God bless the family of 1st Lt. Debra Banaszak.
Debbie
November 2, 2005
We join you in memory of 1st Lt. Debra A. Banaszak. It is truly a blessing to have had courageous women who so loyaly served our country. God bless you.
Marsha Corley
November 2, 2005
Deb was a dear friend of mine from here in St. Charles. She was one of the type of people who, regardless of how far away she was and what was going on in her life, she always had time for you. Her death has left a huge void in my life and she will be greatly missed.
Sondra Millman
November 1, 2005
To the Family and Friends of Debra,
We may not have known Debra personally, but that doesn't make any difference, one life lost, is one life too many and we want you to know we feel your pain. We are still trying to get our lives back in order after losing our beloved Granddaughter, A1C Elizabeth N. Jacobson, a Security Forces Blue Beret, who lost her life in Iraq, 9-28-05. But, rest assured she is now guarding the Gates in Heaven while waiting for Debra to join her and keep watch over us. Without our children this Country would not be what it is today. May G-d bless our troops, and hopefully, someday soon, Freedom and Peace will reign, so they all can be brought home safely.
No matter what type of accident or act of war, a loss of a child or friend is very traumatic, I know that words aren't much consolation, but we thank you for allowing her to serve. She will always be a hero in our hearts and will not be forgotten.
Elizabeth's motto was "We're only on Earth for a little while, so live life to the fullest and carry a smile."
Heather Casteel
October 31, 2005
All the faculty, staff, and students at Lovington High School would like to extend our condolences and sincere thanks for the great sacrifice she made serving her country. Our prayers go out to her son Mark.
Daisy Smith
October 31, 2005
Remember her beautiful legacy for she lives on in your heart.
Daisy Smith
clyde bowden & family
October 31, 2005
May God bless you and your family in this time of sorrow.
Jamie Graves
October 31, 2005
God Bless ( Jamie, Navy wife)
October 31, 2005
We could never express how greatful we are that we have such selfless people in this world to serve and protect this country. Unfortunately, we are not guaranteed a tomorrow, but our memories will live on.
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How to support Debra's loved ones
Honor a beloved veteran with a special tribute of ‘Taps’ at the National WWI Memorial in Washington, D.C.
The nightly ceremony in Washington, D.C. will be dedicated in honor of your loved one on the day of your choosing.
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Should I Send Sympathy Flowers?
What kind of arrangement is appropriate, where should you send it, and when should you send an alternative?
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What Should I Write in a Sympathy Card?
We'll help you find the right words to comfort your family member or loved one during this difficult time.
Read moreResources to help you cope with loss
Estate Settlement Guide
If you’re in charge of handling the affairs for a recently deceased loved one, this guide offers a helpful checklist.
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Obituaries, grief & privacy: Legacy’s news editor on NPR podcast
Legacy's Linnea Crowther discusses how families talk about causes of death in the obituaries they write.
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The Five Stages of Grief
They're not a map to follow, but simply a description of what people commonly feel.
Read moreWays to honor Debra Banaszak's life and legacy
Obituary Examples
You may find these well-written obituary examples helpful as you write about your own family.
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Obituary Templates – Customizable Examples and Samples
These free blank templates make writing an obituary faster and easier.
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How Do I Write a Eulogy?
Some basic help and starters when you have to write a tribute to someone you love.
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