Deborah Norma Cook
1957–2022
It is with heavy hearts and lots of tears that we announce the sudden death of Deborah (Debbie) Norma Cook. Debbie died Friday, Sept. 16, 2022 at the Royal Victoria Hospital in Montreal.
She leaves behind Herb, her devoted partner and husband of 31 years. They spent nearly half their lives together, but married just six years ago.
Debbie also leaves behind her stepdaughter Tracey (Ricardo), stepson Tim (Nancy) and grandson Cayden; as well as nieces Nellie and Melissa (Jason) and their children, Quentin, Tyler, Tristan and Myles. She also leaves behind Georgie, her beloved dog.
Debbie’s passing was preceded by the untimely deaths of her sisters Sharen (Kim) and Susan (Don). In the years since their deaths, she became a lifeline to her nieces, and a grandmotherly figure to their sons.
Debbie grew up with her sisters in Ville St-Laurent, where their mom Nellie worked at the Norgate pharmacy. Later in life, through social media she reconnected with many people from those days and became an incredible friend to many of them. She maintained decades-long friendships with many people from different periods of her life, but was also open to making new friends. She always had an extra seat at her Thanksgiving and Christmas tables for those who might otherwise spend the holidays alone. She was extremely generous with her time and kindness, checking in on people often and offering them support, encouragement and love.
From her wicked sense of humour (especially her Dame Edna impression), to her profound love of reading, to her ability to look on the bright side of even the toughest circumstances, Debbie was a kind, creative and sensitive force in this world. Our worlds are emptier without her.
A celebration of life service will be held in the spring. In lieu of flowers, please consider contributing to the service by contacting Tracey, or making a donation to the Montreal SPCA in her name.
Envoyez vos messages de condoléances.
Dear Debbie , I was blessed to have met you at work and have always looked to you as my Auntie Debbie from another mama from another family lol. We would have some deep conversations, and sincere chats about life - most of which would end in tears (on both our parts) ..but then there were so so so many laughs which would end in us crying of laughter. As raunchy of a woman you were (we used to always laugh saying we were so much alike ) - my goodness were you ever a dainty, soft hearted soul and my life is better having known you. From your love for your one and only Herb to lil Georgie Girl , your family and friends were oh so lucky to have had you in their lives. I can't express in words how shocked i was to hear you were gone , my heart breaks for all those you left behind...the great upstairs has certainly gained an angel and the stars will shine brighter now with you among them. May you rest in peace , with your mom and sisters and may we meet again one day ! Bless your family and i send my deepest sympathies to them all. RIP my buddy in crime !!
Debbie, you were such a sweet caring lady who has left us way to soon. Herb and Georgie were her world and I know if she could have stayed with you she would not have hesitated. You will be missed. Thank you for being part of my life.
Ours lives were inriched when we met Debbie and could of asked for a better neighbor. We send our deepest sympathies to Herb and all the family. The Shanks family.
Send your condolences.
Debbie was always such a sliver of happiness and laughter in my day as we rode together to work, I will never forget her laughter and her smile. She was such an animal lover, I will never forget the day I went with her to pick up Roxie and bring her home. You have touched the hearts of so many Debbie (aka Cookie), Rest In Peace.
Sometimes the deeper you love someone the harder it is to find words to share during times of sadness. Debbie’s passing has been one of these times. My deepest sympathy to Herb and all of your family. My heart and love is with you during this time of deep sorrow. I will miss you forever my friend. With my love, Jinny
Always loved to see my "twin" cousin Debbie (we were one week apart). Did not see one another nearly enough, but always enjoyed when we did. I was glad we were in touch in recent years. Clearly loved by many and will be missed.
So, dear Debbie. Didn’t expect to be writing this message now. For you, be at peace. For us, great grief, and pain that you did not get to enjoy the full life of retirement and continued adventures. We feel glad for our shared friendship all these years. You taught us that we never know how strong we are until being strong is the only choice we have. You are one of the very best. You stood beside us in times of need. You cheered us on when we needed strength. You shared in our triumphs and our disappointments. You brought joy every time we met. We miss you, we love you and we are deeply hurt by this farewell. But even in the midst of this terrible grief, we are so grateful for the wonderful memories you have created and left with us. We thank you for all you have done. And, as you rest in that well-deserved peace, you should know this: your goodness and your decency will live on forever in our hearts and we will cherish your memory as long as we live. Our deepest sympathy to you Herb, and Melissa & Jason and Myles, and all the family and friends in this time of such sorrow. The news hit us with shock - then obvious sadness for you and all who love her. We were so fortunate to have had Debbie as part of our lives and the real sadness is that we did not have more time with her. What a woman. What a life. We are so incredibly sorry for your loss. Most sincerely, Bonnie & Paul
Debbie was such a bright light, so positive and always ready to help out. There’s a new angel in town. She will be forever reunited with the sisters she missed so much. RIP Deb
I knew Deborah, Debbie from my childhood in St. Laurent. I reconnected with her online was always pleased to read of her life and view her posted pictures. It was apparent to me that Debbie was liked and loved by many people, may she rest forever in peace. Yehi zichra baruch.
