Deborah Mae VanOflen

Deborah “Debbie” Mae VanOflen, age 66, passed away Saturday, August 21, 2021. She was preceded in death by her parents Jim and Jennie VanOflen and special aunt, Vivian Yerrick, who were her caretakers for most of her life until their deaths.

Debbie, our dear sister, aunt, great-aunt, and friend, passed away very unexpectedly Saturday, August 21. To know her was to love her, and while she couldn’t communicate in the traditional way because of her cerebral palsy, her smile, her expressions, and her eyes said it all. Everyone who met her grew to love her for her beautiful smile, her determination, and her passion for helping where she could. She loved her family and animals, especially her dogs.

She resided with and is survived by her sisters Jamie Cardosa and Becky (Mark) Meyer; nephews Nathan (Nicole) Cardosa, Michael (Courtny) Cardosa, Dan (Rachel) Cardosa, Brett (Amber Beimers) Meyer; great-nephew Landen Cardosa; great-nieces Raegan Cardosa, Remi Cardosa, Mila Cardosa, Jennifer “JJ” Cardosa, baby Cardosa; her best friend whom she loved for over 50 years, Bud Richards; special friends Deb Regal, Alice Donahue, Joan McLain; and special nurses Jackie, Carol, Jeanette, Jeannine, Sue. The family wishes to express their deep appreciation to Dr. Terrance Barnes and Dr. Francis Hart for their wonderful care and compassion.

Visitation with Deb’s family and friends will be held from 6-8 p.m. Sunday, August 29, 2021 at Kubiak-Cook Funeral Home, 312 N. Main St., Wayland. A celebration of life will be held 1 p.m. Monday, August 30, 2021 with one hour of visitation prior to the service, at Kubiak-Cook Funeral Home.

In honor of Debbie and in lieu of flowers, contributions may be made to Mackenzie’s Animal Sanctuary, 8935 Thompson Rd., Lake Odessa, MI 48849. The family welcomes memories and messages in their guest book online at www.kubiakcookwayland.com.