It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of Deborah Susan Van De Ryse (nee Ing), beloved and cherished wife, mother, grandmother, sister and friend. Debbie passed away peacefully in her home on the farm on October 19th, 2024, at the age of 67 years at sunrise.
Debbie was born in Drumheller on March 2, 1957. She spent her younger years in Drumheller until 1965 when the Ing family moved to Calgary for work. Debbie met her husband Edward Van De Ryse in Drumheller on one of her trips to visit her grandmother. They married on March 23, 1974, and in September of that same year, they were blessed with their son, Edward. The three of them lived in Calgary until 1976 before returning to Drumheller. In May of 1978, they welcomed their daughter Michelle.
Debbie completed accounting courses through correspondence and started her first job with Feil and Company in the mid-1980’s. She would go on to work at Stewart & Wiley, and then Trevor Gough Professional Corporation. In 2003, she purchased H & R Block and started her own independent practice. In late 2011, she sold H & R Block with plans of retirement. Over the years she developed strong bonds with her colleagues and neighbours. She held these friendships very close to her heart.
Debbie continued to do some accounting work from home for a few of her long-time clients, family and friends. She enjoyed planning, planting and growing all types of plants from vegetables to flowers. She had a passion for cooking and baking, always trying new recipes. Debbie volunteered her time with the Newcastle Recreation Association as treasurer for many years. She also volunteered for many other community groups helping with their accounting needs. More recently, Debbie volunteered with the Drumheller Community Food Box program. She took pride in her work with the Food Box as the purpose is to provide nutritious food at an affordable price.
In March of this year, Debbie and Ed were fortunate enough to celebrate 50 fun and loving years of marriage. Throughout the years they enjoyed travelling, exploring and experiencing new cultures. Their favorites included extended trips to Australia and Belgium.
Debbie was a beacon of warmth, always offering a listening ear, supportive shoulder, and unconditional love. Her love for gardening was surpassed only by her love for her family, whom she nurtured with the same care and attention she gave to her plants. Her big heart will never be forgotten.
Debbie is survived by her husband, Ed, son Edward Van De Ryse (Kelly Cooper), daughter Michelle Scott (Steve Leonhardt), granddaughters Lisa Van De Ryse (Luke Oswald), Kayla and Kelsey Scott, Claire and Paige Leonhardt, sister Beverly Ing (Steen Korsgaard), numerous cousins, nieces and nephews. Debbie was predeceased by her parents, Russel Ing in 1995 and Susanne Ing in 2018. In Debbie’s memory, donations can be made to a local charity of your choice.
A memorial service celebrating Debbie’s life will be held Friday, November 1st at 1:00 pm at the Newcastle Community Hall. Courtney-Winters Funeral Home entrusted with arrangements.
