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Debra Knafel Obituary
Debbie was born in Buffalo, N.Y. on March 11, 1953 to Bill and Jan Knafel. She grew up in Akron, and attended Fairlawn Elementary School, where she was chosen to sing in the May Festival for her lovely singing voice. She also excelled in swimming and horseback riding at Camp Firebird. Debbie attended Firestone High School where many friendships were formed.
Debbie was preceded in death by her father, W.J. "Bill" Knafel, aunt, Ellen Crews and uncle, Les Bolin. Survived by daughters, Kimberly Gill-Williams, and Jessica (Will) Teeple; grandchildren, Jamie, Darion, Johnny, Olivea, Madyson and Davin; mother, Janet Knafel of Fairlawn; brothers, John (Sharon) Knafel and William A. Knafel; nephews, Matthew and Andrew (Jennifer) Knafel; loving aunts and uncles and many cousins including "special" cousin, Rosie Ballway.
Cremation has taken place. A memorial to celebrate her life at a later date.
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
Memories and Condolences
for Debra Knafel
Mike Burich
January 25, 2013
I was very saddened to hear that Debbie lost her hard fought battle.I hadnt seen my cousin in years but was informed of her illness by my sister Ro who was very close to her.She told me of Debbies courage and strong resolve never feeling sorry for herself in the struggle she faced.God bless her.My deepest sympathy to my aunt Janet,family, and all who knew and loved her.
Donna Pape
January 25, 2013
I remember all the good times we had as kids when we had family gatherings over at Aunt Janet and Uncle Bill's house - crawling into the big bush in the front yard, listening to Beatle albums in Debbie's room and just hanging out. I'm so sorry to hear of Debbie's passing, but she sure is in a better place now!
January 23, 2013
Aunt Janet,
Very sad to read about Debbie. Wish we had lived closer and spent more time with our Ohio family. Her suffering is over and she is now with our Lord. Take care
Cindy Pape Jenkins
Darion and Olivea Williams
January 23, 2013
We love you Mee-Maw forever!
kim williams
January 23, 2013
I love you mama. You are forever in my heart.
Rosie Ballway
January 22, 2013
Debbie was the bravest and toughest girl I have ever known. The original free spirit and thinker. A fighter. I never heard or knew Debbie to say an unkind word about anyone. She faced her illness with determination and bravery. She lived her life with hope and grace. She fought hard and never gave up. She's in Heaven now and finally healed. Can't wait to see her again. Miss you & Love you, Cuz.
Ken Beachy
January 22, 2013
I will always have fond memories of the frienship Debbie and I shared over the years.
David Keller
January 22, 2013
I went to Fairlawn School 'back in the day' with Debbie and many other memorable characters and remember her vivid live rendition of "If I Had a Hammer" in Mrs. Stalder's music class in that little upstairs room, (the one with sand mixed into the light green paint on the walls - - remember?)
If anyone else from that heroic era would like to reach me to reminisce about Debbie and others, please don't hesitate to reach me through this tribute - - it would be a lasting
Fairlawn School honor, circa 1963 when all of America changed on November 22nd.
- David Keller
Sandi Rogers
January 22, 2013
Jan, please accept my sincere sympathy at Debbie's passing. My first job was working in accounting at Knafel Pontiac (68-74) and remember Debbie well. She was full of life and free spirited. I am sure she will be missed by all that knew her.
Sondra Mosley
January 22, 2013
We love you and thinking about you Jess and the family. Love the Mosley 6
Jessie Teeple
January 22, 2013
I love you forever and always Mom.
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