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Deborah Stewart Obituary
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Memories and Condolences
for Deborah Stewart
Karen Herlands
December 24, 2024
Miss you- Had the best five years creating laughs and art with you!
Jodee Deutsch
December 24, 2022
Deb - I think about you so often. I had lunch with Ethan & Emily last week (pizza, of course). They are both thriving! They both remind me so much of you in different ways.
We shared stories about how much you loved the bears in Simsbury.
In March, I knew you would be there to welcome my dad with a big hug.
I wish you were here to meet for coffee or lunch and light up my day with your smile.
I love you and miss you.
Jodee
Karen Herlands
December 27, 2019
A very special woman in my life- made me laugh, cry and scream out loud! Our friendship was cut too short by a recurring battle with cancer. I miss our time together more than anyone can imagine. She knew how to have fun and that is what I miss most. She taught me to relax and enjoy life while we were together. Miss you but I KNOW you are always there looking over us all!
Deb & Di - Many moons ago
Diana Stewart
December 28, 2008
It's been over a year since Debbie left us. I continue to miss her physical presence but have many memories and mementos that will have to do. The unveiling service was difficult for all of us -- shocking that the year had passed so quickly. Hard to see her name written in stone. It was comforting to share it with so many who loved her and especially good to be with Ed, Ethan, Emily, Herb, Karen and Larry. The yahrtzeit service and bench dedication was another marker of time. And the bench is so Debbie!
I never got around to posting my thoughts about Debbie and will do so now before this Guest Book enters another realm.
From the moment I met Debbie in August 1987 it was obvious she was a very vibrant, fun loving, get up and go! person. She welcomed me into my new family and always was a loving sister (in-law) - a fellow in-law in a large extended family.
Over the years we spent lots of time together during family dinners, celebrations, vacations, and holidays. Early on (before kids) we took pottery and knitting classes together. we were pregnant at the same time and spent many hours together knitting sweaters for and talking about our soon to arrive children. Over the years Debbie gave me lots of good ideas. Her flair for decorating and entertaining always impressed me. She accomplished it with an ease that totally escapes me. Debbie had a lot of creativity and courage to change things to the way she liked them, no matter what others thought. She always had a great eye. One year she helped me prepare in advance for a Rosh Hashanah meal at our home. She put together several dishes that worked together perfectly for apples and honey -- I always use that arrangement and think of her.
Much later, on her first (and last) visit to our new home she noticed that a two paneled painting had been hung with the panels backwards -- of course she was right -- and no one else had even noticed it, including several decorators and numerous family members!
Once she moved to Connecticut, Debbie was just a phone call away. Her cheerful "Hi Di!"always brightened my day. Deb was glad to hear about good things that happened, laugh about goofy things and was always empathic about difficulties.
Debbie approached her illness with resolve and determination. Over the years she changed from protecting the privacy of her plight with a passion to becoming much more open about her cancer -- accepting the concern and love we all felt towards her. She had so much cheer for and concern about others, despite her own difficult circumstances.
Debbie was always thinking of new ways to create. Even when I visited her, three weeks before she passed away, she examined my bracelet very intently, considering ways she could make one like it.
It is incredible how closely Debbie related to so many. There are so many of us who felt close to Debbie and that our feelings were totally reciprocated by her. To the end, she kept up her many friendships and made new friends wherever she went. Debbie's friendly spirit allowed her to connect with us, who consider her to be like a true sister. Deb will always be missed and yet always be with us.
Maxine Deutsch
December 7, 2008
Although it has been a year, I still feel like Debbie is still on this earth because I can hear her voice on my cell phone messages. Recently, I had to get a new cell phone and I was most worried that I wouldn't be able to keep her messages but fortunately, they are still there.
It was so difficult at Debbie's unveiling. Just seeing her name on the monument made it truly final. It was wonderful to catch up with Ed, Emily and Ethan and they seem to be doing well.
Several years ago, when Debbie came to stay with me, she brought me a bird made of beads and I have it hanging on my pot rack in the kitchen. I look at that bird daily and through it, I can see her beautiful smile.
I also remember when I visited her in Connecticut one year in December and we shopped for gifts for her doctor and the nurses in the oncology department at the hospital. She put so much time and thought into those gifts and ended up making something special and significant for each of them as only Debbie could do.
I am sure that everyone who ever knew Debbie is thinking of her at this time. She will hold a special place in our hearts forever.
Karen Herlands
December 5, 2008
It's been a year and holiday time has come round again. (Still) Hard to believe you have disappeared forever. I too, like Maggie, went into a cocoon and got lost inside for awhile. I lost a best friend- never will I replace what Debbie gave me in the short five years we were friends.
I changed my hair color so I wouldn't be red anymore. But after a year of mourning, I went as red as I could and it feels great to put the color back in my hair. Debbie, I hope you love it too! I am red again like you!
My paper sunflower (the one I found at school on your birthday) is on my refrigerator so I will always remember to think of you. It's not the same without you.
Ed Stewart
December 4, 2008
A year has gone since Debbie passed away. We unveiled her marker at the cemetary in Cincinnati last week. It was a sunny day and many friends and family members were on hand to say prayers with us.
Everyone misses Debbie and her unique style. It was a sad thing that Debbie developed breast cancer but she wore it as well as anyone possibly could. She willed herself to live with disease and she did live. When it was time to let go and end her suffering, she knew when.
I want to thank everyone for their support during the past year. Ethan, Emily and I learned alot about friendship & caring from others.
I also want to thank everyone for their contributions to this guestbook and to various charities. It is good to read about memories and feelings to remind us that we are not alone.
Without doubt Debbie would be proud of the way our children have grown and matured in this year. I am constantly impressed at the way they have rallied to support each other. Each have submitted applications to college and each is working diligently in their senior year.
Debbie was a bright flame and she certainly lit this world.
Ed
Maggie Gammell
December 2, 2008
I think of you every day Debbie, it's nearly a year and I need to speak to you. I have not done a very good job here Debs, went a bit nuts and got lost in my own world, you know what I'm like, I need to stop thinking about me, see the world outside and take part in life. I'm sorry.
I often drive down roads in Simsbury, too fast of course, and remember me and you laughing our heads off at some ridiculous situation we had thought up... I did by the way, or predicting some awful naughtiness our kids would get into... they did it too... I miss you so much.
Remember me you and Karen and how people always commented on our red hair... you being the only natural, Karen worrying if hers was too much and me trying to look as fake as possible.
I never thought about you not being in my life, you were my Debsy Doos and we had plenty of time to Do... so you gave me all the encouragement to follow my crazy ideas. And then I'd come round and talk of nothing but horses, horses, horses. The great passion discovered with your help. Me and my Big Boys. I always thought we had plenty of time.
I want you to come and watch me gallop across the fields, I go so fast, I'm sure I can catch up with you, I jump over trees knocked down by storms, come with me and fly, Debbie.
I realize now that every card you sent me told me how much you loved our friendship because you wanted to make sure I knew.
So this year I will light the menorah each night and remember good times with you.
I love and miss you very much Debbie.
Des Moines Race for the Cure
Jodee Deutsch
October 27, 2008
On Saturday, October 25th, I "Walked for the Cure" in Des Moines along with 24,499 Iowans raising over $500,000. Walking in memory of Debbie and Marlene was emotional, but also healing. I encourage everyone to participate in their local Susan G. Komen run or walk. The attached picture is in front of the capital building in Des Moines. Check out the gold dome.
Jodee Deutsch
August 22, 2008
It's been 8 months since we lost Debbie and I think about her every day. I've been living in Iowa for 7 months and I think about the advice Debbie would have given me about getting involved in the community and meeting new people. She was always the life of the party and wanted me to be too.
In an effort to see as much as possible in my lifetime (lesson learned from Deb), last week I attended the Iowa State Fair (listed in the 10,000 places to see before I die book). I was thinking about how much Debbie would have loved the fair with the animals, art, flowers, butter sculptures, crafts made of corn, and the every food "on a stick." It was certainly a sight!
There was a Susan B. Komen educational trailer at the fair. I stopped and signed her name on the In Memory of Banner with tears in my eyes and a smile on my face.
We all miss her so much.
Larry Kraus
June 4, 2008
We honored Debbie’s birthday while on holiday with friends, Kate and Cary. Kate’s late sister, Amy, also shared Debbie’s birthday. Amy was my closest friend, and lost her battle at age 40.
Amy and Debbie lived life to its fullest with big smiles and lots of love.
We had cloudy weather for two days. Then, on the 23rd, as if on queue the sun shined brightly, the water was vibrant blue, and the flowers and fauna were beautiful beyond description. We raised our champagne glasses at breakfast in memory of Debbie and Amy.
A toast they would have enjoyed!
Karen Herlands
May 24, 2008
Yesterday was Debbie's birthday- We shared our birthdays together since I have known her. I really missed her this month. As Ed said, Mother's Day, birthday- it was a hard month for me without her. Friday, as I walked the halls at the school I work at, it was quiet and I thought of Debbie. As I walked, I saw a paper flower that had fallen off one of the student's projects hanging on the wall. It was a sunflower. I smiled and said- oh hi Debbie. And I kept the paper sunflower with me all day. Just wanted to share that with you all. She is around. Well, to me that was more than a metaphor. It was a sign- she is around- at least that is how I see it.
Lori Heiney
May 23, 2008
Happy Birthday my May 23rd birthday twin! The best day of the year. I miss our annual singing phone call and the toast to our very special day. It's hard to imagine my "oldest friend" is not here to celebrate with me. I miss Debbie but have the picture (Thanks Ed) of her smiling face with Sheri and I to look at and remember ALL the good times! I raise my birthday drink to Debbie, her laugh, her smile, and our many many years of shared memories.
Ed Stewart
May 23, 2008
Today would be Debbie's 48th birthday. We have been missing her very much this month because May was Debbie's month.
In addition to her birthday, there was Mothers Day and our anniversary. May was a month of gifts and parties but not this year.
As I played golf late yesterday afternoon, there were dark clouds and rain showers then I saw a double rainbow with the most vivid colors I can remember. I suppose it could serve as a methaphor.
Today, we can pause to remember Debbie with love and know that the storm is over for her and that she is in a better place, at peace.
Maxine Deutsch
April 21, 2008
After reading Ed's latest entry in the Guest Book, I got a smile on my face remembering a phone conversation I had with Debbie last fall. She told me how excited she was because her friends were planting daffodils in her yard as she watched from the window. She said that they would be blooming around the time of her birthday and it gave her even more reason to continue to fight for another one. I know she will be looking down on those flowers as they bloom and will appreciate their beauty in a way that only Debbie could do.
I miss her so very much and one of the ways I keep her spirit alive is to listen to two voice mails from her that I have stored in my cell phone. I can't explain it but hearing her voice helps me find peace.
Ed Stewart
April 20, 2008
Last night was the first night of Passover. I heard Debbie say that it was her favorite of all holidays.
She liked to be the hostess and would plan for weeks to make it special. She was attentive to all the details of the meal, the table setting and the serving arrangements.
More than the food or getting to use her fine china, she liked to get the family together. She enjoyed the noise and hubbub all around.
Though we enjoyed great hoptality at Jody and Stan's, it wasn't the same without Debbie there.
Ed Stewart
April 20, 2008
Spring arrived this week and a long winter ended. Debbie went into the hospital just after Thankgiving and so began a very long winter for the Ethan, Emily and me.
Debbie loved springtime, especially in Connecticut. She marvelled at the blue sky here and called it "Connecticut blue." She stopped to admire the fresh blooms and smell them. She took in the fresh air.
As I worked in the yard today, I thought about how Debbie would bring out her flowerpots and plan, then plant to make the patio and deck brighter. I always told her to stop, that's enough, but she always wanted to plant another and another.
Debbie decided to put out nectar a few Springtimes ago. She had great success attracting hummingbirds to our breakfast room window. I found the feeder today. Even if I have half her knack for mixing the nectar, it won't be the same should the hummingbirds show us favor.
Debbie loved springtime and it's warmth. She sat on the deck with her flowers, seeing the bright blue sky, hearing the brook below and watching for hummingbirds.
Winter is ended and we feel the hope of a new sping. Despite our loss, we move on. This week, I will take the kids to shop for colleges and soon they will finish their junior year.
Debbie would approve of our plans for summer as we do our best to move on. We miss Debbie very much especially in Spring.
Cousins - Sheri, Debbie & Alan having fun at OSU
March 17, 2008
Debbie and Laing in May 2003
March 6, 2008
Debbie and Jill in May 2003
March 6, 2008
Debbie and Amy in May 2003
March 6, 2008
Fran, Ed and Debbie in Brugge, Belgium (Oct. 1990)
March 4, 2008
Debbie, Sheri and Lori in June 2004
March 3, 2008
Debbie and Fran in Brugge
Gary and Fran Jonesi
March 2, 2008
We wanted to share these two photos from our honeymoon in Belgium in October 1990. Ed and Debbie put us up for a few days in their lovely townhouse and showed us around Antwerp and Brugge. Debbie was a wonderful host and we will always remember and be grateful for her part in making the first days of our married life together a carefree and special time. We will always treasure these memories.
The Stewart Girls, CA Dec. 2006
February 23, 2008
Palm Springs, CA Dec. 2006
Anita & George Stewart
February 23, 2008
We have been on the internet site for Debbie many times, each time intending to write an entry or send a picture. Each time we find ourselves in awe of the friendships and love that Debbie accumulated during her short life. Each a beautiful tribute, each an insight into a life that was busy and fulfilling in a way that gave her a claim on our hearts and a desire to spend time with her, each time we come away in tears. We had a wonderful relationship as friends and as co-lovers of all things beautiful. She was a Bright Star and we were fortunate to have her light up our family circle. She will be missed. Memories of all her fine qualities will live on in Emily and Ethan and through Ed’s wonderful commentaries on their life and love. Thank you Ed, for bringing home a Beautiful Redhead with an unending smile.
Much love,
Mom & Dad Stewart
Jodee Deutsch
February 21, 2008
Debbie brought light to my life during my darkest days and I thought I would never be able to thank her properly. I was wrong. For the past five years, Ethan and Emily have grown from kids to young adults and I was fortunate to be involved. After visiting Simsbury last weekend, I finally realized that Deb left this world and is in a better place AND she left me with a way to pay it forward by continuing to be part of the kids lives as they grow into adults, decide which colleges to attend, and beyond. For this, I am grateful. Ed, Em, E, and Puddy, I love you guys!
Patti Foster
February 17, 2008
Debbie brought radiance and vibrancy to this world. I enjoyed the pleasure of her wit, her boundless creativity, her burbling laughter, and her appetite for fun as she and Sheri befriended me in Ft. Lauderdale almost three decades ago. Years later, in Cincinnati, as a wife, a mother, and a friend, Debbie glowed with love and free-spirited optimism. Her sparkle lives on in the love she gave, the friends she touched, and the beauty she created.
Karen Herlands
February 10, 2008
I still think of Debbie every day- I see the trees swaying in the wind in such a vibrant way and just "know" it is Debbie waving to me from up above. As I read all the wonderful things people remember about Debbie, I am most touched by the words of Ed. You noticed everything about Debbie. I pray that she can hear those words echo in the wind so she will know all the things you appreciated and loved about her. She was so humble, she took nothing in return for her gifts. Debbie, I hope you are happy wherever you are. Keep on waving to me from above, so I know you are there. I will look for you everywhere. Love, Karen
Ed Stewart
February 8, 2008
Debbie was a woman of style. She had a unique and remarkable way in her presence. Anyone who knew her would agree.
The first thing a person would notice was her hair. She was always careful to arrange it just so. But it is superficial to stop there.
She could dress up but she preferred to dress down. She was most comfortable in jeans and a t-shirt, which she wore well. This only polishes the surface.
Debbie's style was to bring artistry into all her doing. She was adept at entertaining and our guests would never see the pains she took to prepare. She was careful to arrange a table. She would often go into the garden and bring fresh flowers, cuttings and even pine cones to the arrangement. Debbie would pour over recipe books to set a menu days in advance. She sought color, texture and flavor to make a meal an experience.
While this may sound overly planned, Debbie's core was spontaneous. She would get up and make things and do things. She had a sense of living. She would create something where there was nothing.
Debbie's style was marked by an inner grace. It was peppered with an urgency. I think she knew that her time was limited and she wanted to experience every moment and savor it.
Debbie was energetic even restless. She could drive people to do things that they did not imagine they could do and to be what they aspired to be. She inspired her friends to do more, to do better and to be happy and in the doing and being.
Debbie was a beautiful woman on the outside and a spirited woman on the inside.
As her illness advanced, her spirit soared higher. Debbie's style was admirable as she faced her fate. She did not buckle or break. When it was time, she knew and she let go. She faced her fear and learned a calm courage.
Debbie had her own style and the rest of us can learn from it. I know I did.
Family photo
February 8, 2008
February 4, 2008
Jill King
February 3, 2008
Our friendship was so special like so many others. I loved talking to Deb for no reason other than a good laugh or a "pick me up." I learned so much from her about life and living and what truly matters. Through my hardships, which I learned were nothing compared to Deb's, she inspired me and I began to live differently. I thanked her for her wisdom, strength, and joy. I will also miss my artsy friend. We shared our creative techniques and had fun working together. And I loved visiting Simsbury and spending time with Deb, Ed, Ethan and Emily. Debbie glowed with pride when she showed me around town. I'm sure there's a party going on somewhere and Debbie's the hostess. I can hear her laughter...always. Love you,
Jill
Debbie in Montana
January 27, 2008
Debbie and her dad
January 27, 2008
Ed and Deb at the b'nai mitzvah party
January 27, 2008
Julie, Debbie and Deborah
January 27, 2008
Debbie and Ethan
January 27, 2008
so beautiful
January 27, 2008
Randall Birckhead
January 24, 2008
A Valediction Forbidding Mourning
John Dunne(1572-1631) Public Domain
As Virtuous men pass mildly away
And whisper to their souls to go
While some of their sad friends do say
The breath goes now, and some say no
So let us melt, and make no noise
No tear floods, nor sigh tempests move
'Twere profanations of our joy
To tell the laity of our love.
Moving of' th' earth brings harms and fears,
Men reckon what it did and meant
But trepidation of the spheres
Though greater far, is innocent.
Dull sublunary lovers' love
(Whose soul is sense) cannot admit
Absence, because it doth remove
Those things which elemented it.
But we by a love so much refined
That ourselves no not what it is
Inter-assured of the mind
Care less, eyes, lips and hands to miss
Our to souls therefore, which are one
Though I must go, endure not yet
A breach, but an expansion
Like gold to airy thinness beat.
If they be two, they are two so
As stiff twin compasses are two,
They soul the fixed foot, makes no show
To move, but doth, if th' other do.
And though it in the center sits,
Yet the other far doth roam
It leans and hearkens after it
And grows erect, as that comes home.
Such wilt though be to me, who must
Like the other foot, obliquely run
Thy firmness makes my circle just,
And makes me end, where I begun.
*****************************
It is almost like John Dunne must have had Deb and Ed in mind when he penned this poem.
I love you both,
zach's bar mitzvah August 04
January 19, 2008
Deborah Birckhead
January 17, 2008
I am one of the many who had the privilege of having Debbie as a dear friend. Her beautiful spirit was a pleasure to behold and I am so grateful for every moment I could spend with her. And what great times we had! Gatherings all had her special touch like the champagne glassed we embellished to give with invitations to our New Year's Eve 2000 bash, pumpkin carving in the back yard for Halloween, Ed's 40th guy party, flashlights and water guns for the kids in the summer, book club luncheons with wonderful food and beautiful table settings and of course the super fun party in honor of Emily and Ethan's b'nai mitzvah. I loved our many walks together, some favorite places were along the river downtown, French Park, on the beach at Cape Cod and our last glorious hike in Montana. We would talk about anything and everything and I will miss that so much.. Her attitude was always positive and she didn't have a mean bone in her body. She was a wonderful wife, mother, sister, daughter, friend. Her life was and continues to be a great source of inspiration to me. Debbie, you are in my heart always and forever.
Debbie's Roots
Michael and Leslie Kreines
January 16, 2008
Our World is Now Slightly Dimmer.
Her radiant hair.
Infallible perpetual smile.
Affirmative attitude.
Sincere laughter.
A constant shining light in a complex shifting world.
Now severely missed.
John Magnus
January 14, 2008
To Ed and all the Stewarts - Reading these Guest Book entries brings into focus a life beautifully-lived, and an unimaginable hole left behind. Thanks for putting this material where your friends and supporters can see it.
Merrie Stillpass
January 13, 2008
With Debbie in the family, who needed Martha! Debbie’s creativity ranged from setting a table and cooking for a party, to decorating and crafts. Even on the Stewart family vacation to Palm Desert in December 2005, Debbie brought beading supplies so that Mom and sisters-in-laws Diana, Deena, Ellen and Merrie could make Debbie-inspired jewelry. I feel fortunate to have had Debbie as a sister in law. She lit up Ed’s life and was a loving mother. She will always be an inspiration to me in how to face adversity head on. She will be missed by all of us.
Ed Stewart
January 12, 2008
Debbie was an artist. She was creative and expressed herself in many media. As a Fine Arts student at The Ohio State University, she painted many canvases that hang in our home today.
She carried this passion into adulthood as a store window decorator. She started a business at home with her friend Lori to make gift baskets and painted many plastic tubs and small pieces of children's furniture.
When the business disbanded, she carried in her fashion by expanding into larger pieces of furniture. She would find old pieces that she could strip down and paint. We have a few in the house today. Debbie added murals and worked a wide range from commerical spaces to children's walls.
Each project was a labor of love. She enjoyed doing this work and was always reluctant to charge people for all of the time she spent working up the designs and running about to gather supplies. For her, the social dimension of working with the client was every bit as important as the art piece itself. In Cincinnati, she took referrals from a children's furniture store and worked on several children's bedrooms for players on the Reds.
Debbie continued to find new media to explore her creativity. She began painting on glass, making jewelry and knitting. She enjoyed helping other people with themes for parties and became quite a hostess in the process.
Debbie's artworks satisfied her clients and I received a great deal of unsolicited, positive feedback from them. Those people could not imagine the satisfaction that Debbie received in the performance of the work.
She made a studio in the house in Amberley Village. It was always a mess with several works in progress at any time. Our children grew up on that same hallway and would visit her at work, sometimes participating.
The creative process and spiritual energy that it generated made Debbie a unique women. I will always remember that Debbie was an artist before I married her and she remained an artist at the core of her being and I loved her for this.
Debbie had her own style, which I will write about another time.
Debbie's smile will live forever in our memories
Steve and Susan Fisch
January 12, 2008
Debbie was a tremendous inspiration to Susan and me. When she called to encourage us, we were strengthened by her.
Betty and Marty Slavney
January 11, 2008
To The Families and Friends of Debbie Kraus Stewart, We have shared so much in our lives and are thankful for the bonds of friendship between our families. Debbie was so very special to all of us, and we find it very difficult to imagine a world without her smiles, her friendship and her warmth.
Ethan & his buddy Zach out on the town with Debbie.
January 11, 2008
Jim and Stacy Reichert
January 8, 2008
Debbie leaves behind a great legacy in Ethan and Emily. After reading these moving entries in the Guest Book it saddens us that we didn't spend more time with her and get to know her better.
Marla Walsh
January 7, 2008
We were all very saddened to know that you lost a very close loved one to cancer. I lost my own mother to cancer as a child. Please know you are in our thoughts and prayers and we are here for support through the difficult times,
Marla Walsh,
Legal department
Alstom Power Inc.
Windsor, CT.
Shannon Gagne
January 4, 2008
Debbie was a very special woman, I was very fortunate to know her, She was an influence on my students as well, Debbie gave us the opportunity to participate in the Bricks project for breast cancer awareness. She is greatly missed. My love thoughts and prayers are with her family.Love, Shannon Gagne S.H.S.
Debbie and me at the B'nai Mitzvah
Maxine Deutsch
January 4, 2008
Debbie was my hero because of the way she lived every moment of her short life. She continued to smile despite her pain and even the nurses in the oncology department at U Conn Hospital were amazed at her continuous positive attitude. I am so grateful that I was able to spend time with her in October in Cincinnati and November in Simsbury. There is not a day that goes by that I don't think about how much I love and miss her. I know that she and Marlene are together again and smiling down on all of us who love them.
Thank you to Ed, Ethan and Emily for making me feel so at home while I was in Connecticut. I hope you can find peace and happiness in the coming year.
KaTonya Hill
January 4, 2008
Words are often difficult to express to true depths of sympathy when you loose someone so loved. Please know that I am thinking of you and your family during this time and keep you in my prayers for continued strength.
January 4, 2008
Love Karen, Jeff and the boys
January 4, 2008
Love Karen, Jeff and the boys
January 4, 2008
Love Karen, Jeff and the boys
January 4, 2008
Karen Greenberger
January 4, 2008
Debbie not only lit up a room when she walked in, she also warmed so many hearts. That warmth not only drew you to her but made you want to be with her and be a part of whatever she was doing. For me that started as a little girl. Always wanting to wear her clothes, jewelry, hairstyle etc. Oh, I drove her and her friends crazy as only a little sister could! Luckily for us we moved forward into a close and wonderful relationship. We told each other everyday how much we loved each other and that is one of the many things I miss. That along with the laughter that somehow always crept into our conversations no matter what the subject.
Thank you everyone in Connecticut for loving Debbie so much. Her Cincinnati family is so grateful for all you did to care for her and to make her happy. You all made a difference in her life and continue to do so for Ed, Emily and Ethan. For all of that I thank you.
Her journey through her illness was inspiring. The willingness to keep fighting and continue to love her life came from somewhere within herself that really was just unbelievable and forever remembered.
Deb I love you. You are forever in my heart.
Ed Stewart
January 3, 2008
Debbie had many friends and each was special to her. She made friends wherever she went and made real efforts to maintain her connections. One special friend was born on the same day in the same hospital. Others she met in grade school at Pleasant Ridge Elemntary School.
She added friends ar Reading High School, though many people thought she went to Walnut Hills. She truly enjoyed The Ohio State University and maintained regular visits around the country with her sorority sisters.
When the twins wer born and very young in Belgium everyone wanted to know her. They would stop us in the park and say, "Ah Twelings, a kings gift!"
All around Cincinnati, people knew Debbie, or maybe they just confused her with her sister Karen due to red hair induced blindness. We could never go out withour running into friends.
No matter where she went, people gravitated to her. This was most felt when the family moved to Simsbury. We were welcomed and included in so many nice gatherings. She found terrific and personal care at UCONN. She really enjoyed her life in Connecticut and would race off to the Long Island Sound or New York City or the Berkshires.
As I reflect on Debbie's way, she was always upbeat. She could arrange the party and be the life of the party. She was pretty and she sparkled no matter what chaos was around her.
To all of you who knew her and loved her, she will be remembered always. If you never knew her, well, I am sorry because you missed something special.
I hope you will memorialize her with your own stories so that we all remember her well.
Herbert Kraus
January 3, 2008
My dear daughter Debbie was one of the highlights of my life. I nicknamed her "Gadoodlehopper" when she was just learning to walk. She was a delight to both Marlene and me when we first laid our eyes on her.We laughed at her full head of bright orangish red hair which really set her apart from everyone else.
Melissa Arsenault
January 3, 2008
In all the years I have been an oncology nurse I have never met anyone who was as optimistic and determined to survive as Debbie. She took every bit of information and used it to her advantage, even the worst news one could imagine. She taught me how important each day is and to live life to the fullest. Her sense of humor, her abilty to laugh, her will to live all inspired me. I consider her a true friend even though our relationship was mostly based here in the cancer center. I knew at any time I could call her cell phone for advice from TJ Maxx or to meet for a coffee. I will think of her often and I have Ed, Ethan, Emily and Deb's family in my prayers. May they all take Debbies strength with them in their future endeavors. I will miss her very much and I can only hope I can be as strong as she was when the time comes. Love and kisses to her and her family.
Susan Wechsler
January 3, 2008
Debbie, you were an inspiration to everyone whose life you touched! Just knowing you has made me a better person. I will forever hold you in my heart. I love you!
Always a smile!
Larry Kraus
January 3, 2008
Debbie was a wonderful big sister!
She loved my Dad, our late Mother, sister (Karen), me and our families with all her heart and soul. Debbie fought this disease in a courageous manner. She always found the glass half full.
This picture is from our September 07 celebration ending my daughter’s chemo treatment for Leukemia. Debbie was Tillie’s biggest cheerleader during both of their battles. Deb found enough strength to get to Cincinnati and give us all one last kiss.
Joanne Jagodinski
January 3, 2008
I hope Ed, Ethan and Emily will find comfort at this difficult time. I hope all of us who loved her will be able to remember her and cherish the special person in her and in our relationship with her too. Shalom.
In Boston 2006 with smiles!
Jodee Deutsch
January 2, 2008
I feel fortunate to be part of your lives in the past, present, and future. You will forever be part of mine. - Jodee
Debbie in Summer 2004
January 2, 2008
Beth Somen
January 2, 2008
I miss you so much! I will miss every moment we spent together from the ymca, shopping,tubing, hot tubbing, lunches,and even trips to the hospital. No matter how bad things got you were still worried and concerned about everybody else. That is what makes you such a special person! My only regret in meeting you is that we didn't meet earlier. I am fortunate through our friendship that I now have an extended family with Ed, Emily and Ethan. My family will always be there for them. There have been many days I run home from school excited to share another story with you and then I remember you are not there. However, I know in my heart that you can still hear me. I love you and miss you dearly! Till we meet again. Beth
Karen Herlands
December 30, 2007
Life will not be the same without you.
I regret that there won't be any more marvelous adventures together. We had a blast. Ed. Ethan and Emily- we are all here for you. Deb was
simply the best there was.She had a winning spirit that made everyone feel important and special. She was one of a kind. She was my best friend. I will miss you, Deb. I hope you have found peace.
Anne Giliberto
December 30, 2007
The Connecticut Affiliate of Susan G. Komen for the Cure sends their deepest condolences on your loss. We appreciate your consideration of our organization for memorial donations and being part of our mission: To save lives and end breast cancer forever by empowering people, ensuring quality care for all and energizing science to find the cures.
Please contact our office if we can help you in any way at 350 Church Street, Hartford CT 06103
Tel. 860-728-4955
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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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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.
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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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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 Deborah Stewart'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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