JOHN AND GIRLS, I THINK YOU ARE OWED AN EXPLANATION AS TO WHY YOU DID NOT SEE US AT DEB'S FUNERAL. AS YOU KNOW OUR HOUSE WAS FLOODED AND AS OF TODAY STILL NOT REPAIRED. WE STOPPED THE AUSTIN PAPER, SO DID NOT SEE OBITS. TODAY I WAS LOOKING AT THE PAPER ABOUT ANOTHER FRIEND PASSING AND LOW AND BEHOLD GOT A REAL SHOCK WHILE SCROLLING AND CAME TO DEBBIES OBIT. YOU KNOW WE LOVE YOU ALL AND FEEL SO BADLY THAT WE DID HAVE ANY KNOWLEDGE OF HER PASSING. WE ARE SO SAD AND FEEL SO BADLY. THINK OF ALL OF YOU AND KNOW YOU HOW MUCH YOU MUST MISS YOUR WIFE/MOM. MY PRAYERS GO OUT TO YOU ALL. 
LOVE, JAN AND TOM

It was always fun coming over to visit my Aunt Debbie and cousins as a kid. She was so high spirited and I love her dearly. Being around her gave me so much comfort and joy. And I know she's now happy and healthy and reunited with my dad and the rest of the family in Heaven. She'll always have a special place in my heart.

John, so sorry to hear about Debbie. I had always though there would be time to get down to see you guys.  Time just slipped away.  The pictures of  your wedding were terrific.  Can't believe we were ever that young! Or skinny. If there is ever anything I can do, just let me know.  Sorry I can't be there tomorrow.  The job and some family commitments just can't be put off. I know I'll always think of her from time to time and wish I'd made a point of keeping in touch.  My prayers are with you and the girls.  God bless you all.

Debbie was a wonderful woman.  She always had a smile that stretched forever and she was always concerned about someone else.  She raised the most beautiful, caring and loving family.  We will miss you.

Jennifer, my deepest condolences to you and your family. Sending positive thoughts your way.
Hang in there.

Working together for twenty years meant laughing together for twenty years.  Having a daily dose of Debbie made life so much sweeter.  She had a boundless energy and aura which will remain with all of us.  Thank you, Debbie, for sharing so much of yourself.  Thank you for sharing your joy of life.

Debbie was also like a 2nd mom to me. I spent hours at their house and learned a lot from her. I am so sad I can't attend the funeral. I will always remember her twinkly eyes, beautiful smile, and her love to laugh. Keep her spirit alive by always sharing stories about her. I will be thinking of you guys! Love, jennifer (troell) lisanti 
PS Love the photo from my bachelorette party!

John, Jeanne, Julie, and Jennifer,
I was 16 years old, sitting in Reagan HS cafeteria and Debbie appeared with that beautiful smile and infectious laughter, thus the beginning of a 48 year friendship.
You know some or most of the stories of our high school years together, and some of the precarious circumstances that we created.  Then as years passed we would see each other once a year or so, and stay up until four or five in the morning to catch up on life.  Those memories are forever etched in my heart.  The laughter, love and trust that we shared as friends is hard to come by and will forever be treasured.
Although the practical jokes and continuous laughter were one of Debbie's greatest hallmarks, I feel the number one hallmark was what she modeled to the rest of the world as a loving and giving wife, mother, grandmother, daughter, sister and friend.  
It is a privilege to be called Debbie's friend.  I will miss her deeply.

Thanks Aunt Deb for the times we spent together.  I have so many memories.  Laughing and playing Donkey Kong, trying to beat each others score.  Our one on one times that meant so much.  The care you took with each one of us as individuals.  Accepting me for who I am and never judging.  Our late night talks after everybody else went to bed.  The games and athletic stuff you did no matter what.  Helping us to grow into strong women.  You are and will be dearly missed in my life.

You, Mom and Uncle Jim try not to cause to much trouble in heaven.

Love you,
Carrie  XOXO

What a truly caring and loving inspiration to the world. I have the best memory of laughing with her in Colorado. God Speed dear lady.

Our Deepest sympathy! Her smile was so infectious! John, Jeanne, Julie, Jennifer and family, our prayers or with you! Our family was blessed to have spent over 18 years with her next door! Many of our families fondest memories were shared with Debbie and John and the girls. We will never forget those experiences or Debbie! Wish I could be there, to hug and share a tear for a wonderful Friend!

Listen to the wind and hear her voice. 
Hold your body to the sun and feel her embrace in the warmth. 
Remember always she is with you, in your heart, soul and mind, and forever will be.

Debbie was like a second mother to me. I love her so much! Her infectious smile and practical jokes were something I think all will remember her by. Through all of her trials I never once heard her complain.  "Mean as ever" is how she would respond to "how are you?"
I will miss her always.

OBITUARY

Debbie Hempel

25 May, 1951 – 10 July, 2015

Cook-Walden/Capital Parks Funeral Home & Cemetery

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