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Deborah Wilson Obituary

DEBORAH ANN YONAN WILSON DEC 19, 1951 - JUL 1, 2011 Deborah Ann Yonan Wilson passed away on July 1, 2011 in Santa Cruz. She was 59 years old. Debbie was born and raised in Modesto, CA. She was born December 19, 1951 to Joel and Alice Yonan. Debbie earned her B.A. and her Teaching Credential at Chico State. She later went to St. Mary's College where she earned a M.A. and an Administrative Credential. During her life, Debbie lived in Modesto, Paradise, Manteca and then Santa Cruz. Debbie had a full career in the field of education. She worked as a teacher, of Grades 1, 4, 7 and 8 in the Empire School District. Debbie was the Principal of both Monticello Elementary School in Manteca and of Live Oak Elementary School in Santa Cruz. In her free time, Debbie liked to ride horses, to ride bikes and go for walks on the beach. She loved to travel, garden, and go to the theatre. She also enjoyed spending time with family and friends. Debbie attended Our Lady Star of the Sea Church and she was a member of the Santa Cruz Horseman Association. She loved to go trail riding on her horse, Ashley. Debbie is survived by her husband of 20 years, Gary Wilson of Santa Cruz, sister, Diane Yonan-Boxell of Turlock, sister-in-law, Elizabeth Ann Wilson of Santa Rosa, brother-in-law Robert Lewis Wilson and his wife Alice of Reno, NV and 5 nieces. She was preceded in death by her parents, Alice J. Yonan who passed away April 20, 1980 and Joel D. Yonan who passed away August 17, 1998, and her nephew Gabriel Wilson. A Mass will be held for Debbie at Our Lady Star of the Sea Church, 515 Frederick St. in Santa Cruz on Friday, July 8, 2011 at 11:00 am. A visitation will be held at the church on Thursday, July 7, 2011 from 5:30 pm until the Rosary, which begins at 7:00 pm. Please visit www.pacificgardenschapel.com to light a candle for Debbie and share any condolences with her family. www.modbee.com/obituaries

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Published by Modesto Bee from Jul. 2 to Jul. 3, 2011.

Memories and Condolences
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Tricia Cross

July 27, 2011

Awww what an angel Debbie was and still is in our hearts! No matter what was happening, a smile was always on Debbie's face! You will be missed Debbie and our heart is with you Gary and family.....Peace to all....Tricia & Nathan

Barbara McHann

July 27, 2011

It was with great sorrow when we heard of Debbies passing. Knowing Debbie for all the years she has been a kindle of light in everyones heart that knew her. We will always remember Debbie for being part of a beautiful family that we know.

Shirley Hall

July 9, 2011

Sorry to hear about Debbie.

Jill Yamashita

July 7, 2011

So sad to hear the news. She had the most beautiful eyes and smile. I will miss her. She has touched so many lives and was dedicated and hard working. Hugs for Gary.

Margarita Dreyer

July 7, 2011

I remember looking behind me and seeing your smiling face at Mass. You were(are) a support to many of us. I shall miss you Sista.

Debi Krilanovich

July 7, 2011

Debbie, I will always have vivid memories of our talks about "horses and riding".Oh, how you would light up with joy! May you ride forever in heaven.

David Paine

July 7, 2011

Debbie, I will miss your sense of fun. It was so great to have you as a friend. You were such a dedicated educator and influenced so many in a positive way.

Heidi

July 6, 2011

Debbie,  I will miss your infectious smile.  You gave so many fortunate people and animals, the gift of your love and acceptance.  

The pride and love for your school and all of your kids will forever remain as a true testament to your devotion.  

You lived your short life fully and touched many, you are a  beautiful soul.

We are blessed to have you watching over us and we will remember you, always.  

Thank you for your gift of caring for all of us when we were sad, making sure we were OK.  Thank you for sharing the book Heaven is Real.  Our love to you and Gary too xoxo.

Karen Roberts

July 6, 2011

So very sad to hear the news. Sorry I didn't see her for many years. Her smile and laugh will be with me. Sending hugs for Gary and Diane and family.
Karen Roberts

Joni Gianotti

July 5, 2011

I was sorry to hear the news about Debbie. I remember working in the EUSD with her. She was always kind and her smile was contagious:) She graduated with my sister at TDHS and I remember that same smile on campus. She will be missed, warm thoughts for her family and close friends.

July 4, 2011

im so sorry to have read that debbie has left us. i have gone to school with her from john muir, la loma, and downey high. i always admired her, she was so smart in school. she was always nice to me. the last time i saw her was at our 30th class reunion. she still look the same as in high school i had told her thst that night. woll miss you and your smile. rick burkett.

Debbie's enthusiasm was contagious, always Live Oak Elementary School's most passionate advocate. She was a trusted friend who will be missed by many.

Michael BrownKorbel

July 3, 2011

Carrie Jett

July 3, 2011

I am so sorry for your loss. My mom, Carolina, worked with Debbie at Live Oak. Debbie was amazing and supportive through my mom's cancer treatment. I will never forget her kindness. They are together now, cancer free & watching down on us.
Carrie Beatton Jett

Lisa Essa

July 2, 2011

I'll always remember how sweet Debbie was and her beautiful smile. My heart goes out to her family.

July 2, 2011

May Diane and all Debbie's family members, relatives, colleagues and friends find comfort in knowing Debbie is now at peace. With tender thoughts from a family friend. Bettie Essa

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