Tribute Wall
Thursday
11
January
Visitation
12:00 pm - 3:00 pm
Thursday, January 11, 2024
Castle "Fallsview" Funeral Home
309 Lancaster Avenue
Saint John, New Brunswick, Canada
5066341701
Thursday
11
January
Funeral Service
3:00 pm - 3:45 pm
Thursday, January 11, 2024
Castle Fallsview Chapel
309 Lancaster Ave
Saint John, New Brunswick, Canada
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Marlen Buitelaar posted a condolence
Friday, January 12, 2024
We were very fortunate to have met her and my son to be coached by her. We will never forget Debby, she was such a helpful person and a kind soul.
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Mark Lackie posted a condolence
Thursday, January 11, 2024
My deepest sympathies to Rod, Chris, Allan and your extended family. I was honored to have known Debby since 1977. She was a friend, a coach, a mentor and someone who truly inspired me. Debby had a passion and zest for life that was infectious and touched everyone that had the privilege of spending time with her. She was an amazing ambassador of sport and we are all extremely grateful for her life-long dedication to Speed Skating and proud of her accomplishments. Debby will be dearly missed and fondly remembered.
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Guy Bushell posted a condolence
Thursday, January 11, 2024
My heartfelt condolences to the family.
Debby was just a wonderful person. So positive, energetic, friendly. An inspiration to me, and so many others.
I am honoured to have known her for so long through our mutual love of speed skating.
She will be incredibly missed, and never forgotten.
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Derrick MacLeod posted a condolence
Thursday, January 11, 2024
Condolences to Rod, Chris, Allan, and Debby's extended family and many friends on behalf of myself, my family, and FASSCI. Debby had a great enthusiasm for both people and our sport , her energy & spirit will live on in those she meet in her years in NB , Alberta and camps throughout Canada.
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Darrell Leighton posted a condolence
Wednesday, January 10, 2024
Your Maine family is thinking of you all during this difficult time. Reading many of the wonderful tributes speaks to the legacy she has left and the impact she will continue to have. Sending Love. Darrell, Wayne, Debbie and families.
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Dawn (Feero) Saunders posted a condolence
Wednesday, January 10, 2024
I’m so saddened by Debby’s passing. I’ve known her since our high school days at Saint John High. I’ve followed her impressive career over the years. She will be missed. Condolences to Rod and her family.
Dawn (Feero) Saunders
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Elaine Clifford posted a condolence
Tuesday, January 9, 2024
Rod, I am so sorry and sad to hear of Debby’s passing. I am grateful to have spent time with her over coffee the last time she was in Saint John. I cherish memories of us in the church junior choir at a very young age to high school days and our teen years hanging out. My sympathy to Allan, Christopher, Linda and Rodney as well. She left her mark on many people in her time here. Sending love during this very tough time.
Elaine
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Dan Leffelaar posted a condolence
Tuesday, January 9, 2024
Debby was instrumental in my development as an athlete at the Oval when she first arrived in Calgary. Debby also lead team Alberta to the 2003 Canada games which I was a part of as well. Her enthusiasm for the sport and for the games was infectious. Her encouragement and coaching shaped me at an early age and I am eternally grateful for her investment in my life. I know she did this for countless others and will be deeply missed. Her life and legacy was and is a large one.
Condolences,
- Dan Leffelaar
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Tao Wang uploaded photo(s)
Monday, January 8, 2024
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The first time we met with Debby was on a try speed skating session in Feb 2019 in Oval, Calgary. Her passion and enthusiasm on this sport motivated my daughter to continue to skate since then. I personally chatted with Debby back in May last year (2023) on a playground of Ecole Terre des Jeunes school near Oval Calgary when the team was doing some pre season dryland training. She shared with me her chemo experience and mentioned she would go to Ontario to visit her families there in the summer time. We sincerely thank Debby for all you have done for my daughter (Zimu) and we will miss you! From Wang's family. Photo taken on Feb 3rd, 2019 in Olympic Oval, Calgary. Debby was hosting a try speed skating session.
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Jasmine Rudakewich posted a condolence
Monday, January 8, 2024
Our son, Adam joined CSSA about 4 years ago. Debby was one of his first coaches, always providing encouraging words and helping Adam and all the other skaters build their skills. Sending our deepest condolences to Debby’s family. She was a very special lady. Her smiling face will be dearly missed!
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Faith Laurie posted a condolence
Monday, January 8, 2024
Debby has been a faithful family friend for over 30 years. We first met her through the Fredericton Amateur Speedskating Club when our children were skaters and she was the head coach. Our friendship endured well beyond our tenure in speedskating. As the years rolled by and the physical distance between us increased (Fredericton to Calgary) she never stopped keeping in touch with us. The frequent phone calls, texts, family picture exchanges, and summer visits were all reminders of her loyal friendship. Memories of the family suppers together, the runs together on 'The Green' in Fredericton, and the birthday parties for our Saint Bernard dog that she always attended will be forever etched in our memories. Debby you will be forever missed and loved.
Faith Laurie
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Tara Hebert uploaded photo(s)
Monday, January 8, 2024
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I am so sad to hear about the passing of Deb. She was a kind soul with a heart warming smile. She was so well known in the speed skating world but when we went roller skating she was knew the organizers there too. So many people she touched with that smile. She will be missed by myself but all of us at Sunridge Mazda.
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Bryan McSorley posted a condolence
Monday, January 8, 2024
To Rod, Chris and Allan,
I was incredibly saddened to hear the news of Debby's passing. Debby encouraged me to join speed skating back in the day. She was my first coach, my first coaching mentor, and my first "landlord" when I arrived in Calgary. She helped me through so many ups and downs. I've never met another coach with her energy for the sport. Her creativity, talent and energy were unmatched. I'm sure she's in heaven now building its first speed skating club! Debby has touched so many people over the years and her work will continue to be felt for generations.
My sincere condolences to you all.
Bryan McSorley
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Charlene Pilon posted a condolence
Monday, January 8, 2024
It was with great sadness that I learned about Debbie's passing. We were both in the BPE class of '76 and I will never forget her energy, sense of humour, and kindness. Although her heart belonged to speed skating, she pioneered women's ice hockey at UNB. I was delighted to read about her work and accomplishments in the speed skating community over the past 5 decades. A life well lived; her legacy will live on.
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patti walsh posted a condolence
Sunday, January 7, 2024
Our deepest sympathies at the loss of Debby - a true leader and pioneer in the speed skating world.
Our family has been privileged to experience Debby's kindness, friendliness and mentorship over many years and all across Canada (New Brunswick, Ontario, Alberta). She was always so thoughtful in sharing her experience and expertise to each member of our family.
We are truly sorry to hear of her passing.
Sincerely,
John and Patti Walsh, Christina (Acton), David and Julie (Byers)
Kitchener Speed Skating Club, Ontario
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Jean Murray posted a condolence
Sunday, January 7, 2024
Linda, my sympathy to you and your family on the passing of your sister, Debbie. You are in my thoughts and prayers.
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Sondra Dunbar Goplen posted a condolence
Sunday, January 7, 2024
We were so sorry to hear of Debby's passing. She was such an enthusiastic supporter of of the sport of Speed Skating and also any Speed Skater she came in contact with. She leaves behind a great legacy, as so many benefited from her great coaching and mentoring. The Oval won't seem the same without having a brief visit with her. Our thoughts are with you all.
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Dave McPherson posted a condolence
Sunday, January 7, 2024
Deepest condolences. Debbie was certainly a shining light and an inspiration to so many young athletes. I had a great chat with Debbie during our 50th High School Reunion.
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P Gail Whiteford posted a condolence
Saturday, January 6, 2024
Debby came to live with me over 25 years ago when she came to Calgary to work with the Speed Skating community at the Olympic Oval. She lived with me for two years and became a close friend. It was immediately apparent that she couldn't grocery shop or cook. We came to an agreement that I would shop and cook and she would eat. There were good days and those that are memorable: sitting under the front yard pine tree after a huge snow storm and her breaking her leg walking downhill to the bus. When Rod and the boys moved to Calgary she moved from my house. But we still stayed friends. Lots of tea, and laughs and stories. I will miss my friend so much. I wish I could be there to say goodbye, but we did that just before she left for Toronto and Christmas. Love, always love.
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Andrew Barron posted a condolence
Saturday, January 6, 2024
To all Debby’s family, I’ve been out of Debby’s world since I left speed skating in 2000. I will always remember and cherish the years we spent working together. Her smile and energy will remain with me always. Andrew Barron
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Wendy Burrill posted a condolence
Saturday, January 6, 2024
Dear Rodney, Linda and Debby's husband Rod and family, We were shocked and saddened to learn of Debby's death. We had not known about the cancer. Our hearts go out to you as you all loved Debby so much and will miss her terribly. My memories of Debby are of a vibrant, friendly, girl who had a zest for life. We hope to see you on Thursday.
Much love & prayers,
Cousin Wendy and Dan
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Josie Daub posted a condolence
Saturday, January 6, 2024
When I started on the Board of Directors with Calgary Speed Skating Association (CSSA) in 2018, one of our first tasks was to hire a new Technical Director. Debby was the Board’s choice. We hit it off immediately! It was so wonderful to work with someone who shared such a passion for the sport.
We had great years working together, developing the club. Thanks in large part to Debby, our club has grown to over 450 members. Almost every month during the season, she would put on Try Speed Skating events where new members would be recruited. Her infectious positive attitude and energy always translated into many new members. This was one of her greatest talents, making every child or adult, love to skate.
The club is hosting a long track speed skating competition this weekend. My oldest daughter Julianne will be skating with Debby in her heart, focusing on the technical aspects Debby wanted her to improve. She will be striving for personal bests in every distance in honour of Debby.
We will miss you dearly, you are truly a one-of-a-kind ball of energy!
Josie Daub, President, Calgary Speed Skating Association
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Judy posted a condolence
Saturday, January 6, 2024
Dear Linda, Rod and family- my very deepest condolences go out to you all on the sad passing of your beautiful sister. She will be missed by so many who knew and loved her. May she rest in peace and may God give you strength during this very difficult time…
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Elaine MacDonald posted a condolence
Saturday, January 6, 2024
To Linda and Jack Oliver and Rod Graham. my sympathies in your sister's passing.
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Susan Rose posted a condolence
Saturday, January 6, 2024
For Linda Oliver. So shocked & saddened this morning to read condolences on the loss of your dear sister, Debbie. She was a fighter right to the end. A hugh loss for both you & Rodney. Wish I could reach out and give you a big hug, dear friend. I know your heart is hurting today. That obituary was so well written I assumed you were the author. Will be thinking of you. Talk soon. Love from Susan Rose
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Ruth Roberts posted a condolence
Friday, January 5, 2024
Our thoughts are with Debby’s family at this difficult time. Debby became part of the Kullik Ilihakvik family through her many trips to Cambridge Bay to work work with our club and elementary students. She was such a joy to be with and the kids loved her and were so happy when she came . Thank you.
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Joyce Slipp posted a condolence
Friday, January 5, 2024
I have known Debbie for a very long time and always admired her work ethic and love of sport. Her incredible smile and positive attitude were her trademarks. Sincere condolences to her family. She will be deeply missed.
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Mike Phillips posted a condolence
Friday, January 5, 2024
To Rod and family. It was always a pleasure to be alongside Debbie when ever we were around the speed skating world. She really was a happy and cheerful lady. My family will always remember. Mike, Karen and the girls ( Tory, Crystal, Kelly) Phillips
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Beth posted a condolence
Friday, January 5, 2024
Dear Rod and family,
Heart broken is all I can say. Much too young. Know you are in our prayers.
Beth and Phil Wright
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Elizabeth Smith posted a condolence
Friday, January 5, 2024
Our family will miss her greatly! She was always a presence in the rink, helping our speed skaters to improve. Summer camp meant we’d get to see Debby again. At Canada Games she was cheering on the sidelines. She was a lovely lady and we are lucky to have known her.
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Jason Galvin uploaded photo(s)
Friday, January 5, 2024
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Our Deepest Condolences to all the family,
I knew Debra for years through her Martial Arts training in Calgary. She was a great friend and training partner with my late Mother Stephanie Lovatt for many years at Ki.C Yoon Martial Arts.
I remember the two of them together as black belts were a force to be reckoned with, both in and out of the studio!
She will be greatly missed, Rest in Peace.
Master Jason Galvin and everyone at Victoria Hapkido
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Judy Allen posted a condolence
Friday, January 5, 2024
We are broken hearted to read of Debbie’s passing. A wonderful beautiful person. She went to SJHS with David Allen and a dear friend to both of us. Our thoughts and prayers go to her beautiful family
Warmest regards
Judy and David Allen
St. Albert,AB
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Chrissy Craig posted a condolence
Friday, January 5, 2024
The first time we entered the oval with my 9-year-old eager to explore a new sport, we encountered a wonderful woman. Though petite, she exuded immense strength! Her unique passion for speed skating was truly exceptional. During the first couple of years, she took Connor under her wing, providing invaluable guidance in this unfamiliar sport. She enthusiastically cheered for every child as if they were her own, and she loved to engage in lengthy conversations. Many nights, my departure from the oval was delayed because I would run into Debby! LOL!
Through her, I've come to know her children and grandchildren, even though we haven't officially met. Unfortunately, her presence around the rink has been missed this year as she battles against this dreadful cancer. However, I did have the opportunity to see her a few times when she was well enough to come and support the kids or in the hospital.
My heartfelt sympathies go out to her family, and she will forever be remembered as Connor's first coach, the one who sparked his interest in this sport.
You will be missed Debby Fisher, but I know you are still watching these kids and cheering them on!!!!
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Brenda Donovan posted a condolence
Friday, January 5, 2024
What sad news to hear of Debby's passing ~ Debbie was one of us girls from the Vale. My heartfelt condolences to all of Debby's family and friends.
Brenda Donovan
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Nancy & William McKenna posted a condolence
Friday, January 5, 2024
Sorry for your loss. Please accept our condolences.
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Mary Ann Caines posted a condolence
Friday, January 5, 2024
I first met Debbie at the Calgary Oval when my daughter was a cradle skater 27 years ago. We became friends instantly being both Easterners . Debbie would stay at our home in Red Deer when she would visit coaching our club and for competitions she attended. I later became an official as a referee and trained under the watchful eye of her husband Rod. We traveled to several competitions as official’s with Debbie coaching. From Alberta Cups, Arctic Winter Games . Our Friendship was filled with laughter, sharing stories, memories and wine chewing the gab until wee hours. We all know Debbie loved her people and kids were inspired by her passion for speed skating and any skating. Debbie you have left a legacy and you will forever be in our Hearts. Sending much Love to you Rod, Allen, Christopher and family , to all of Debbie’s family & Friends. We are all better humans because we knew the Best and Loved ❤️
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David Galbraith posted a condolence
Friday, January 5, 2024
My deepest condolences to Rod and the family. My memories of and with Debbie were so full of the enthusiasm she shared with everyone she met. I always said Debbie could meet and carry on a conversation with our late Monarch, Queen Elizabeth II, and feel right at home with her, such is Debbiie's ease and friendly nature. And being in the band with her while living in Fredericton was a pleasure and honour to her interest in all things. A true and genuine lass who will be missed. Rest In Peace, my friend.
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The family of Debra Joanne Fisher uploaded a photo
Friday, January 5, 2024
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