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Deborah Nordeen Obituary
Debbie grew up in a musical family in Rockford, Illinois, where she excelled in voice, piano, and dance. She graduated from East Rockford High School in 1969 and earned a bachelor's degree in music education from Northern Illinois University in 1975. Her early performing career included leading roles at Rock Valley College's Starlight Theater and Henrici's Dinner Theater in Rockford.
Following a brief teaching position in Missoula, Montana, Debbie moved to New York City to pursue her dream of performing on Broadway. Under the stage name Deborah Donworth, she joined the Actor's Equity Association and performed in venues such as the Muni Opera in St. Louis, the Tropicana in Reno, and a national tour of the Broadway musical, "Oklahoma."
In 1979, Debbie became a devoted follower of Meher Baba. Her spiritual journey led her to India, where she met her future husband, Peter Nordeen. They married and shared 41 years together in Asheville, North Carolina. Together they founded Meher Filmworks, producing documentaries about Meher Baba's life, and supporting related projects through newsletters and fundraising.
In 1994, Debbie became Artistic Director of Womansong of Asheville, a role she cherished deeply. She was known for her dedication to her family-caring for her parents in their later years and offering unwavering support to her sisters and friends.
Debbie is survived by her beloved husband, Peter Nordeen of Asheville; and her three sisters: Donna (Tim) Lovstad of Lakeville, MN; Denise (David) D'Angelo of Athens, GA; and Deanna Falchook of Mendota, IL. Debbie's close circle extended to Peter's siblings, her nieces, nephews, cousins, in-laws and many devoted friends.
The Deborah Nordeen "Celebration of Life" service will be held on June 14, 2025 at 11 AM at Center For Spiritual Living Asheville located at 2 Science of Mind Way, Asheville, NC 28806
In lieu of flowers, Deborah Nordeen's family kindly request that donations be made to: Meher Spiritual Center
10200 North Kings Highway
Myrtle Beach, SC 29572
U.S.A.
Federal Tax ID 570422620
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
Memories and Condolences
for Deborah Nordeen
Chanthan
July 16, 2025
My deepest sympathy for your loss.
Jim frisino
June 14, 2025
Jai Baba! Victory unto You
Susan Paul
June 12, 2025
Debbie was a long time dear friend, both in India and in Asheville. It is difficult for me to imagine either place, without her. Much love to Peter and all family members, Susan Paul
Tina White (now, in New Jersey)
May 28, 2025
Dear Family and friends of Debbie Nordeen; we have lost a darling caring and talented soul. This world will be at a loss without her. She was a marvel of creative genius, joy and kindness. We met at the Webster Apartments in NYC in the late 70's where our little group came to rely on each other as confidants, inspired enthusiasts and caring sisters. Debbie was always kind and encouraging. A practical soul but she kept everything in perspective and demonstrated self care as a way of life. She was open to all, honest to a fault and a truth teller. She will be missed and I send my condolences to Peter and her whole family. With love, Tina White
Allan Cohen
May 24, 2025
From a first meeting in her time in New York City to my last visit to Asheville, I saw her as an extraordinary force for good. A role model for spiritual students, her energy , creativity, and devotion, was an inspiration and delight. A life lived well, a precious gift.
Mark Trichka & Lisa Brande
May 22, 2025
We send our love and condolences to dear Debbie's family and friends. We will miss her greatly and cherish her memory always. Just to think of her makes me smile. We are so grateful for her loving presence and beautiful singing which sweetened almost all of our pilgrimages to India and many stateside Baba events. Thanks you so much Debbie, we love you!
Kendra
May 22, 2025
A wonderful person, matchless!
cindy lowe
May 21, 2025
We're sad for us but happy for her. What a great soul! Her ability to be cheerful in the darkest times was enviable. She brought out the best in people and always stressed the positive. She was one of the brightest stars in Baba's constellation and will be greatly missed by many.
Jane Paladino
May 20, 2025
Debbie was truly a jewel in beloved Meher Baba´s crown. Her enthusiasm, talent, and kindness were gifts to all who met her. I send my loving condolences to Peter and all who loved Debbie.
Jean Brunet
May 19, 2025
Dear Debbie will always be in our hearts. She was such a special soul - one of a kind. We miss her and her beautiful voice.
Jean & Phil
Virginia Bower
May 19, 2025
So sorry to hear of losing Debbie. Though I didn't know her well, I knew her from several encounters with music: Womansong (to which I belonged for a couple of years late '90's), the Meher Baba Sahavas in Asheville (an attendee). Even though we saw each other infrequently, whenever we did see each other, she was always so very warm and kind. I miss seeing her name on the Baba listserv with so many Baba-love-filled messages! Blessings to her family and friends.
Barbara Burdick
May 18, 2025
I met Debbie at the Webster Apartments in NYC where we shared our aspirations for Broadway and Opera. She was always full of humor and encouragement and really blessed my life and those around her. I remember a Christmas concert we gave at the Webster where Debbie performed magnificently. Debbie was a beacon of joy in this world.
Barbara Burdick
Barb (or Barbara) Norton
May 17, 2025
Ohhhhh, Beautiful Debbie...
I met Debbie back in the 70s at the Webster Apts. in NYC. She lived across the hall from me. We had many sweet, sincere, fun times; whether it was meeting for meals and being too loud (& joyful) or dressing up, becoming different characters (with given names) and walking the streets of NYC - just for fun!
Debbie was kind, humble, fun, generous, deeply spiritual, and oh, so talented. During any conversation, she could break into song. She rarely sang a few bars. Sometimes, she would sing the whole song. It was always a gift of pure delight to relax and soak up her lilting beautiful voice, soul, light, and joy.
For me, Debbie´s greatest gift was acknowledging people´s wounds and also seeing their beautiful souls. She had the magic of helping one know they are worthy, special, and have so much to offer the world. She continued to be a close, deep friend throughout my life. Debbie was valiant, brave, and accepting of her last carnal journey.
Debbie, you are, and will be deeply missed. Yet, now you are free! I see you soaring, singing, and dancing in the heavens. Soar, my beautiful friend, Soar!
Brian Darnell
May 17, 2025
A Meher Baba gem.
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