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Dorothy Poate
December 21, 2020
Never forgotten. Her loving spirit stays in our hearts.
Dorothy Poate
December 25, 2019
Never forgotten. Her loving spirit stays in our hearts.
Margaret Shaw
January 28, 2009
I received this beautiful e-mail from Joe LoCastro which I'd like to share...
Dear Margaret,
It saddens me to see that Debbie's Guest Book has a final chapter. I have visited this site countless times and read the many entries, even my own, over and over. You have been a wonderful sister and friend to Debbie and she loved you very much. I know this because she told me so. Debbie has touched many people in her life and her memory will never be forgotten. I have not totally accepted that she is gone physically, but she is, and deep in my heart she will live on forever. I still smile when I think of her, and there is always a tear at the same time. Debbie was a powerful young woman, and she didn't need much time to make her mark on this earth. I have on different times asked Debbie for strength, and I'm still here and strong, so it must have worked. I don't believe that people who we have loved just disappear. The soul can not be broken and will not die. I really mean what I say when I tell you that Debbie was the closest person in my life who has ever passed on. She along with the other lives that have meant something to me are really not that far away, and I look forward to joining them when the time comes. Being in your company is the next best thing. I wish you peace and happiness, and know that I will always be here for you.
Love, Joe
Margaret Shaw
January 23, 2009
Thank you to all those who have kept Debbie's memory alive in this beautiful Guestbook which I shall now close. I shall have this bound and given to Michelle, Debbie's daughter to cherish for the rest of her life. We are truly grateful to all those who have shared your thoughts and prayers.
Margaret Shaw
December 18, 2008
Deb...
Margaret Shaw
August 19, 2008
Deb, I can't believe it's been so long. I'm now at the age you were when you died. You were the only one I wanted to celebrate my 50th with. We celebrated in spirit. There's no end to my sadness. You will always be loved by your blood relatives, and those that truly cared about you.
Love, your ever adoring sister...
Joe LoCastro
June 2, 2008
Deb, the unveiling was beautiful. I got there first and was drawn to your space without direction. It was as if you had taken me by the hand. The day was lovely with just a sprinkle of rain that reminded me of gentle tears, but not enough to get wet. Michele has matured into a fine young lady, and being in her company made me more easily feel your presence. Margaret has not changed a bit. Everyone should be blessed with a sibling and friend as loving as she. There was even a DVD tribute to you which brought smiles and joy to everyone. Debbie you will never be forgotten, especially by me. Love always,
Margaret Shaw-DeLuca
June 2, 2008
Deborah Jean Shaw-Krier
Read at her Unveiling 5/31/08
As a young girl, my sister was a pleaser, that was her nature, and she laughed all the time. She did whatever my parents asked her to do, no fuss, just did it. She wanted to go out with her friends, and the easiest way to that end was just to do her chores as she was asked.
She had a lot of friends and always went out and had fun. In her younger years, Debbie met Joe LoCastro and Oh how she loved being around him. When I was in their company, I just remember how much they laughed. She truly blossomed with him.
Kenny, who she loved to go dancing with. I truly believe that those times at the discos were some of the best times of her life. She always fancied herself a good dancer and she had won dance contests with Kenny many times to prove it. While she was dancing, she would just throw her head back and laugh. (I will always remember her that way).
During nursing school, Debbie met Judy Baron. They shared a close bond that lasted till her death. Judy is also Michelle’s God Mother, and after all those years - Debbie’s best friend. Judy, Gary and Debbie vacationed on a regular basis, especially when their kids were young and up to her death. I believe Judy and Debbie had a connection beyond understanding. After all, Judy IS a nurse too.
Debbie had so many friends, in fact, I’m quite sure Debbie had friends in every corner of the earth. She just hadn’t met them yet.
Debbie had quite a sense of humor, sometimes she shocked us all. When new wave was all the rage, I remember my sister dying her hair so many colors, I told her she looked like a Macaw parrot. Mom wouldn’t let her see dad in the hospital like that, so she had to redo her hair. Thinking back, knowing how close she was to my father, he probably would have thought it was cute.
My illness took a toll on my entire family. There were literally times when I was having serious panic attacks that Debbie literally lay across my entire body reassuring me that things were going to be okay. She promised that I was going to be alright. I’ll never forget that. She helped me rise above the depths of hell into the light. She was my light, she was my nurse.
When my mother had her brain aneurism, she did everything for her. I saw how she gingerly helped my mother up the stairs into her room, turn the TV on for her, tuck her in, and made sure she had a buzzer, just in case she had to go to the bathroom. She took her to her dialyses sessions, cleaned her trayk, bathed her daily and simply loved her, she was my mother’s light and her nurse.
My mother’s close knit friends, the Spadaccini’s, Everly’s/Cherry’s, Turner’s, Bakuskus’s, and Fallons all grew up knowing Debbie. She loved you all. One of the last pictures I have with Mrs. Spadaccini and Debbie hugging at my mother’s memorial. It was a candid shot actually, and I couldn’t tell who was consoling who. My sister, still trying to be the comforter, while being comforted.
When Mike and I had our troubles, I went to stay with Debbie for a few weeks, every morning Debbie got up, whether she had to or not, and put on a pot of coffee and made me breakfast.
Each day I left for work, I looked up and saw her at the door waving good bye to me as I drove off. THAT’S how I will remember her, her standing at the door, waving goodbye.
Michelle, how unfair to lose a mother at such a young age. She lived her life caring about you and worrying about the choices you made. I think she also knew how absolutely brilliant you are, the many talents you possess, your strengths. She would be so very proud of you. She will always be with you. Sometimes, I want you to just stop for one minute and listen, you’ll hear her call your name. She may come to you in your dreams and lay a warm blanket of love over you.
I will always be here for you.
Yet the one thing I don’t think anybody realized about Debbie is that she never, I mean never spoke poorly of anyone. She couldn’t. She cared too much about people. She loved people.
I want to make clear my reasoning behind my so many references to Debbie being a nurse. As in life there is a reason for everything. I truly believe that Debbie didn’t choose to be a nurse - I believe because of her pure good nature, nursing chose her.
Debbie, my beautiful sister, I looked up to you in so many ways, you had all the qualities of everything I though was good. You deserved so much better. They say the good die young, and in this instance it is certainly true. You will always be remembered as young, lovely, vivacious, generous and kind. I was so fortunate to have had you as my sister, and I adored you and I miss you so much.
I want to read a short poem from Isla Paschal Richardson which I take a great deal of comfort in...
“Grieve not, nor speak of me with tears, but laugh and talk of me as if I were beside you. I loved you so. Twas heaven here with you. “
GOD BLESS YOU DEB.
Margaret Shaw-DeLuca
April 28, 2008
Deb, I miss you so much.
Joe LoCastro
March 3, 2008
Hey Deb, I hope that you can hear my thoughts. They all mean that I miss you very much. You were such a good friend. You always opened up your heart to everyone and gave your all. When we speak of you, your smile is always the first thing mentioned and then there was that Donna Summers number that made you dance. I will never forget those night lights that you purchased for one of your many parties. I picture them in my mind all the time, especially when I pass a dollar store because that is where you told me that you found them. They were of Jesus and his mother Mary. I am certain that they are still shining their light on you. And those biscutti, no one made them as good as you. The things that I think about regarding you are endless. You have left behind many teary eyes and broken hearts.
Ken Fluehr
December 19, 2007
I can't believe it's been one year already since Debbie has left us in heaven. Last week as I was writing out my Christmas cards, I pause for a bit, as I came to your name on my address book, thinking, that this just can't be, that I won't be sending you cards anymore. You know I'm thinking of you Debbie at this time, and the memories we've hold in the passed, are with me forever. I know you are in Spirit, looking over us, your family and friends. Miss you, and love you....Ken
Margare Shaw
December 18, 2007
12/18 My dear sister Debbie, One year ago today, I lost you - we all lost you. The pain is as great today as it was that fateful day. I carry your picture with me, praying, knowing you're in a better place, a peaceful place. You've touched so many lives. You gave of yourself so freely. I wish I could be like you. My heart will never heal, your loss is too great. I want to thank you Debbie, for showing me what goodness is, and for being there for me always. your friends have rallyed around Michelle and me...You have good friends Debbie. I know you know how they love you. You are loved so much. I pray that you have peace, you must, your with mommy and daddy now. They must be so happy you're with them, holding your hands through all of heaven. I miss you all and I look forward to the time I see you again. All my love, Margaret
My Deb, beautiful inside and out
November 16, 2007
Joe LoCastro
November 16, 2007
Debbie, I have been going through some old photos and there you are. Thanks for the memories. Now I also find you in music, and I know it's not accidental. Love, Joe
Joe LoCastro
September 10, 2007
Dear Debbie, not a day goes by that I don't think about you. I visualize about many of those fun times we had. It was a long time ago, but it seems like only yesterday that we were showing dogs, planning a party, cooking something to eat or just hanging out. As young as you were when I first met you, it was obvious that you were a people person and you really enjoyed making others happy. I was always happy in your company, but more importantly, you were my special friend and I felt complete when you were around. I refuse to believe that you are gone and you can be certain that if the memory of anyone keeps them alive, then you are always alive to me. This is not the end. Love, Joe
Joe LoCastro
August 22, 2007
Dear Margaret, thank you for finding me. I am devistated by your news of Debbie's passing. She has been on my mind for many months now and I just thought that life took us on different journeys, but now I too believe that she may have been reaching out to me. I am sorry for your loss Margaret. Please know that I share your pain, and it is this pain inside that will keep her alive in my heart forever. Debbie was a special person who knew how to make other people feel good and who could take nothing and make something wonderful out of it. Every day with Debbie was an experience and I cherish all the time that I did spend with her and I look forward to sharing some of these happy memories with you. I have so many questions. Why did this happen? How did this happen? It just doesn't make sense.Debbie was so smart, not to mention what a great driver she was. She was almost perfect at everything. If she didn't know how to do something she would either figure it out or research it. Even if it was a recipe that she liked, she would not only master it, but she would manage to make it better. But mostly, Debbie cared about people. The world is a different place without her, but a better place because she was here. Debbie I will miss you dearly until we meet again. God Bless You and please keep an eye on Gabriel for me. Love, Joe
Margaret Shaw-DeLuca
August 10, 2007
My dearest Debbie, I look at your picture every day and I talked to your Michelle on a regular basis. I know that you would have wanted me to look after your only child as if she were my own. She truly is a chip off the old block Debbie, very much like you were when you were her age. My only regret, however, is that you never married again after Anthony, to give this beautiful person you created someone to hold on to during this very difficult time. Your best friend Judy and I are doing our best to help Michelle keep her head held high, and quite frankly, you would be unbelievably proud of your daughter’s strength. While some of the gifts that were bestowed to you, your daughter, your sister, and the love of your dear friends, there still were so many better things in life that you deserved.
Margaret Shaw-DeLuca
January 29, 2007
Deb, you have no idea how much I miss you. Not a day goes by when I have to stop myself from dialing your number. You were my favorite person in the whole world. Your generousity, not only to me, but toward everyone was and will always be unmatched. You truly were the kindest human being alive. I miss you so and I love you more than ever. Whereever you are, I hope you found the peace you so deserved. I love you Debbie.
Dorothy Poate
January 7, 2007
Beloved Debbie,
Your Friend, Dorothy here. Just the week before you left this plane, I was at my place in between travels - I wanted to hear my fave song from the October Project that we both loved, Angel In The House. When I thought of it - I clearly saw your beautiful face and smile as we both turned at the same time and saw each other at the concert. Standing next to each other no less in the crowded venue ! As we had not seen each other in a bit and then this opportune chance of a concert not long ago we had the opportunity to share this quality time as we had in past years singing the words together and you still had your gorgeous voice. I was so happy to have that flash and I felt so enriched to have that memory as I sought to find that song to play and sing alone that night - I never did find it and now I know why - YOU were the Angel in my house lifting my spirt in the warmth of your soul as you always did with so many you have touched. I will never miss you as you are always with me in my heart - forever and always as sisters do no matter how far apart - its only temporary. Say hello to our other Loved Ones that shine the suns rays down on us to remind us to be thankful for the time we had together here. Until we meet again loved one - Peace.
Marge Royals
January 7, 2007
You have no idea how much Debbie meant to me. Her death leaves an ache that will continue for a long timne. I miss her terribly, and I loved her.
KEN FLUEHR
January 6, 2007
I'm still speechless of Debbie's pasting. The first thing that comes in my mind are the days in the mid seventies at Dio's Club dancing to the beat of something that started called, "DISCO." Debbie was my first love on the dance floor to the Disco music pushing everyone off the floor, as we were the best dancers their. She had an heart of Gold, and lived life at it's best. I will miss you so, and the memories back then, 30+ years ago, through the years of three decades of memories we had, right up to my last dinner gathering at my house, will be treasure forever. Love you and miss you so...
Celeste Spadaccini
January 5, 2007
It seems like just yesterday we were children dancing to the sounds of Donna Summer in the Shaw Family living room on Fairdale Road and playing Scrabble all night long...Such wonderful memories of a very special lady who filled the room with contagious laughter. You will be sadly missed but I am ever so grateful for the memories. Until we meet again Debbie....Love Celeste
My dear sister Debbie - I adored you.
January 2, 2007
Margaret Shaw
January 2, 2007
The untimely death of my sister will take a lifetime to heal. My family truly appreciates the outpouring of kindness. Thank you with all my heart.
Susan Maier
December 28, 2006
St. Luke's Allentown's Operating Room will greatly miss Deb. Always a smile and never too busy to teach or explain why with procedure or products. It was always a pleasant time when Deb was with us. We will ALL miss her and her friendly smile. Our prayers go out to her family during this trying time. Sue Maier
Dr Maryann Hartzell
December 27, 2006
Deb will be greatly missed. Her dedication to my patients' professional needs was efficiently and compassionately served with a smile and friendly manner that put them at ease. Our practice will keep your family in our thoughts and prayers.
Doug Kuntz and Family
December 26, 2006
To Those I Love and To Those That Love Me, A probable message from Debbie: When I am gone, release me, let me go, I have so many things to see and do. You must not tie yourself to me with tears, be happy that we had so many years. I gave you my love, you can only guess how much you gave me in happiness. I thank you for your love you have shown, but now it's time I traveled on alone. So grieve a while for me, if you must, then let your grief be comforted by trust. It's only for a while that we must part, so bless the memories within your heart, I won't be far away for life goes on, so if you need me call, and I will come. Though you can't see or touch me, I'll be near and if you listen with your heart, you'll hear all my love around you soft and clear. And then, when you must come this way alone I'll greet you with a smile and say, "Welcome Home"
Alene and Rick Honecker
December 26, 2006
Our love for Debbie is eternal. Her comitment to family and friends is stronger than time...We will forever remember her beautiful smile and contagious laughter. Words cannot describe the loss we feel. Deb...you will always be with us...forever and a day...
Diane Taylor
December 26, 2006
Deb will always be remembered for her lovely smile and giving heart.
She will be missed dearly.
Susan Toomey
December 26, 2006
Dear Family & Friends of Deb:
Deb was a devoted Representative and always had a positive outlook on life. I will miss her dearly servicing LVHN's account. She will always remain in my prayers and thoughts.
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