Photo courtesy of Feerick Funeral Home - Shorewood
Shorewood, Wisconsin
Apr 4, 1957 – May 18, 2020 (Age 63)
Entered Eternal Life with our Lord on Monday, May 18, 2020 at age 63.
Preceded in death by her parents Arthur and Belva (nee Werner) and older brothers Phillip and Alan, plus her fur baby, Oreo.
Survived by her brothers Ronald and Thomas (Sandra); sister Barbara; sister-in-law Nancy; niece Lynda (Scott) nephews Gene and Paul (Cindy); great-nieces Elizabeth, Kayleigh, Jordan, Schuyler and Dylanne; great-nephew Justin. Foster children: Cartier (Brittany Exford, Curt Summerville), Carter (Suzette and Clay Tyree), Jakeem (Kinya Segura, Jessi Ware), Armani (Tonya and Robert Wink). Further survived by cousins and friends.
Deb grew up in Milwaukee. After moving to Wisconsin Rapids as a teen, her first job was in retail at Murphys. In search of a better job, she moved back to Milwaukee, where she worked at Boston Store and then Johnson Controls. More recently she worked at Temp Plus. Although her health challenges prevented her from going into work for the last several months, she was confident she would soon return.
Deb has always been active in her church. As a youth, she was in the choir and youth group (co-president). After joining the United Methodist Church-Whitefish Bay in her twenties, Deb was involved in the Altar Guild team, eventually as lead, Finance Committee, as well as the nursery and first grade Sunday School. Her passion for loving and nurturing children moved her, along with her sister Barb, into many years of fostering young children. Deb loved being a foster mom to Cartier, Carter, Jakeem, and Armani. As infants, they frequently slept through the night in the LazyBoy in her arms. She loved their adventures to many Milwaukee area destinations such as the zoo.; beach, museums, gardens, nature centers and playgrounds. In addition, Deb had a variety of other interests including geocaching, games on her phone, country music, and coloring.
Deb's strong faith, determination, and positive attitude helped her through her eleven-year journey with cancer. The family wants to thank Dr. R. Gandhavadi, Dr. R. Nand, Dr. E. Swanson and their entire staff at Ascension Ozaukee Radiation and Oncology Centers.
Deb was active in the Susan G. Komen and Relay for Life walks to raise money for breast cancer. In lieu of flowers, the family would appreciate contributions to either of those organizations.
Private interment, Valhalla Memorial Park. Memorial service to be scheduled in July at United Methodist Church in Whitefish Bay.
Read MoreEven though I didn't know you, I am blessed that you were in my grandson's life, being a great role model and foster parent, Prayers to your family
Ken Exferd
June 25, 2020 | Holly Springs, MS
So many fond memories of both of you!! She was a TRUE champion who always had a positive attitude! I will miss her spirit and perspective about life.....sending you a card Barb - sorry I am behind!! She is in a better place with many other's that she has comfort and peace with god. God bless you and so sorry for your loss!
Susan Goudreau
June 17, 2020 | Milwaukee, WI | Friend
Barb, my sympathies to you and your family. You are in my prayers.
Deb was a true soldier all these years in her fight with cancer.
Your devotion to her was a blessing.
She is now at peace with the Lord.
Dr. Robert Santilli
Dr.Robert Santilli
June 05, 2020 | Milwaukee, WI | Friend
To Debs family, Our deepest condolences to all of her family. Deb had the sweetest smile, always with that cute giggle to follow, which we so remember about her. Death is a pain that no one can heal! A Memory is a blessing that no one can steal! Love and Peace, Howie and Georgene Fletcher
Howie & Georgene Fletcher
May 31, 2020 | Milwaukee, WI | Acquaintance
She was an example for all of us her courage was outstanding and she had great will, we can all learn from her .. Debbie's strength was unbelievable and her faith never failed her. She will be missed by many of us.
Marilyn Stuckey
May 31, 2020
Barb, our hearts go out to you and your family at this sad time. We will always remember what a wonderful, loving team the two of you made together, whether it was the happy times of fostering children or fighting this ugly journey Deb was forced to take. She was lucky to have you and you were lucky to have her. She will be missed by all. We cannot think of a more loving angel watching over all of us now. Our prayers have been with you.
Fondly, Karen and Jim Greer
Karen and Jim Greer
May 29, 2020 | Mequon, WI | Friend
Her smile and strength made Sunday mornings for my husband and me very special. God blessed her in all she gave to so many by her simple presence among us. Thank you, Debra.
Joyce Davis
May 28, 2020 | Whitefish Bay, WI | Family
Deb was a joy to know. She was an inspiration for me to remain positive in all circumstances. May God Bless you, Barb, and the family.
Cynthia Boock
May 28, 2020 | Mequon, WI | Friend
We are saying prayers for the strong lady and her family.
Greg Swanberg
May 28, 2020 | Menomonee Falls, UT | Friend
