Obituary of Deborah Marie Blais

1957 - 2013

Born in Gilbert Plains Manitoba, October 25 1957, Debbie passed away suddenly in Marysville, B.C., on Sunday, April 14, 2013 at the age of 55.

Her parents, John and Stella Choma, raised three girls on their farm. Debbie, the youngest, loved the farm and many times would tell stories about frost on the inside walls of the old farmhouse, frozen hair, no plumbing and the last of the weekly bath water. When all of us were riding buses to school she rode a horse to their one room schoolhouse. Debbie was born of Ukrainian heritage and would display her pride and love any chance she could. She loved her family and would cherish any social gatherings with her uncles, aunts and cousins. Debbie had another family, her friends, all whom she loved dearly. She involved herself in the community participating wherever she could. Her singing career began in Gilbert Plains at an early age when she performed with a band called " Five and a Half ", she being the half. She was an accomplished singer who loved performing with the Steppin' Out Dancers and all who participated in "Lillith Affair".

She could also be found on the Nordic Trails with her traditional classic skis, on the golf course, in hockey rinks and at recitals and concerts of all types. She enjoyed hiking, camping and living the moment within the beauty of our mountains. She never turned down a cold beer and loved sitting on the deck sipping wine with her family and friends as the sun went down behind the hills. Debbie was of positive spirit, the kindest most forgiving soul. Even as she battled cancer this past year, she displayed courage and optimism all of us could learn from. She worked at the J.F. Hazard then up to the Kimberley Medical Clinic for 32 years. She always considered the "docs" and staff her family, and treated all who walked through the doors with respect and dignity. She was the proudest mother and grandmother of her two boys, three step children, and one grandson.

Debbie was predeceased by her parents, John and Stella Choma. She leaves to mourn her loving husband Adrian, her children Derek Carter Stoughton (McKinney, Texas) Scott Tyler Stoughton (Erica) (Austin, Texas), Shawn Blais (Trina), Carrie Blais (Shawn), (Kimberley), Jimmy Blais (Vancouver) and grandson Dawson Blais (Kimberley), sisters, Shirley (Phil) (Winnipeg), Evelynne (Billy) (Gilbert Plains). She also leaves behind many uncles, aunts, cousins, nieces and nephews, and all her many friends.

 

A celebration of Debbie's life will be held at the McKim School Auditorium in Kimberley, BC on Saturday, April 20, 2013 at 2:00 pm.

 

Arrangements entrusted to McPherson Funeral Service.

Condolences for the family can be offered at:

www.mcphersonfh.com