Stan Here:
At around 2 AM on Sunday morning Deb peacefully passed away. After spending 24 hours in a very quiet non-movement state she had a brief time at around 10:30 of being able to open her eyes and we were able to communicate for the last time. This was not in verbal form. Instead a light smile, a few tears and some idea that the words we said to her were reaching her. It was evident as Saturday went on that it was likely the end of life. A different breathing pattern and some other signs that life could not be able to continue for much more than a day.
After resting all day Saturday, the end came in a very peaceful way. Mieke decided to stay overnight and was sleeping, holding Lorelei, next to Deb. She woke up around 2am and noticed her hand moving slightly and slow breathing. A few moments later, she was no longer breathing. There was no final struggle and a very peaceful look on her face even after her death. I will post again soon with arrangements but one thing I do know is that her service will be at Beechwood Church next Saturday at 11AM.
My deepest sympathy goes out to the family. Knowing how she fought her illness, my deepest respect and love for Deb. She was one strong and courageous loving lady who leaves quite a legacy of living each day to the fullest. I'm thankful for knowing her and happy for her that her suffering and pain is no longer. Rest in Peace, dear Deb.
ReplyDeleteSandy Buller
I am so sad to read this, my condolences to Stan, Ross, Alden, Mieke and all the grandkids as well as the family of course. From reading this it also sounds like a peacefull transition to a better place after a long and heroic struggle. Rest in Peace Your Danish friend Morten
ReplyDeleteI cannot express how deeply I am saddened by Deb's passing. We all knew that the end was near, but reading about it in her blog this morning made it so difficult. In the last while I haven't seen or talked with her but she certainly wasn't out of my mind and prayers. I've said it before in that I'll treasure all the wonderful memories I have of Deb close to my heart. She fought the fight and definitely won the battle....she's in heaven singing God's praises!! Please know that my deepest sympathy goes to her whole family and to so many friends who loved her so much. May God give you the peace that only He can give. God bless you all.
ReplyDeleteWith tears going down my face, I am so so sorry to hear this but am so happy for Debbie that she is no longer in pain. Debbie you put up a great fight with that ugly C and I am so proud to have worked with you and have you as a friend. Stan, Meike, Ross, Alden and all you are in my thoughts and Prayers as you continue through these days. Peace to all of you!
ReplyDeleteWords fall short. Love you all...with prayers, the Rocks
ReplyDeleteVery sad news but at least the pain and suffering are over. It is very difficult to watch a loved one go through this. Deb touched many lives and will be greatly missed by many folks. Thank you for writing this blog from the heart Stan. It has been an honor to share in a small portion of this profound journey. Rest in peace Deb.
ReplyDeleteBill Van Eck
Our hearts ache for you and your family. This has been a long, difficult journey. Deb was such a strong loving and lovely lady. We will surely miss her but rejoice that she is no longer in pain and is experiencing her ultimate reward in Heaven. We wish we could be there for her funeral but distance doesn't allow. Please know that you and Ross, Alden, Meike their spouses and those precious grandchildren will remain in our prayers. The Lord bless you and keep you.
ReplyDeleteHenry & Eileen Hofstra
Oh, precious woman finally whole and well in heaven!! So sorry for your loss. May God be so near to you.
ReplyDeleteRest in Peace Deb. My thoughts are with the family. Craig Feringa
ReplyDeleteI'm so sorry to hear of Deb's passing. It's so hard on all whom are left behind. The one comfort is she is no longer in pain and has her angel wings. I know how difficult it is and this brings tears to my eyes. If there is anything I can do, please let me know.
ReplyDeleteI'm so sorry to hear of Deb's passing. It's so hard on all whom are left behind. The one comfort is she is no longer in pain and has her angel wings. I know how difficult it is and this brings tears to my eyes. If there is anything I can do, please let me know.
ReplyDeleteWe share your sorrow and are in tears in this final goodbye to Deb. At the same time, we are joyous that her pain and battle are over. She can now see and get to know the babies you lost. No matter how ill, Debbie always looked beautiful, to match her spirit.
ReplyDeleteAlso reading through the tears - so worry for your loss. So hard to let go and so want Deb to be at peace. May God's peace be with all who are there to share treasured memories and remember the fun and sweet stories. With Christ's love, until we meet again. Kayle & June Hinkle
ReplyDeleteDeb will be missed by so many. Grace and peace to the whole family during this time of adjusting to the loss of a beloved family member. We are so thankful for the gift of redemption and the knowledge that we will see Deb again.
ReplyDeleteEllen Batts Jongsma
Stan,so sorry to hear of Deb's passing. But as others have said, she is at peace with no more pain. She was a great girl,wife, mother and granmom..Also daughter-in-law to my good friend Shirley. Prayers to all of you. Mae Bolt
ReplyDeleteMay God be with your family as you grieve the loss of your wonderful mom. Praying for all of you.
ReplyDeleteSad to hear this news--Deb was a bright presence in my growing-up years in Grosse Pointe. I can still picture Deb so ably accompanying the high school choir at the piano, with Mr. Ricinnto directing. My prayers are with all of her family and loved ones in this difficult time.
ReplyDeleteIt's a pain to read that Deb is not here anymore... She gave birth to my daughter Angele in december 2010 and we have a picture of her with my daughter we put in Angele's baby book. She will always be for us a wonderful nurse with a great smile...
ReplyDeleteWe think of you and all your family in those painful moments
Aude Leblanc