Deborah Laevens

Deborah Ann Laevens, born March 19, 1951 passed away peacefully on June 16, 2023. She is survived by her daughter, Jennifer (Steve) and five grandchildren, Wednesday, Harper, Preston, Kingsley, and Garner. She was a proud grandmother to these grandchildren, whom she loved very dearly. The eldest of Shirley and William Ware's four children, Deborah is survived by her brother, Darrell (Ginny) and sisters, Paula, and Janet (Rob). She had many nieces, nephews, and great nieces and nephews, whom she adored with all her heart. Born in Halifax, Nova Scotia, Deborah had many relatives there who share the sadness of her loss with family and friends here in Ontario. Deborah spent a dedicated career with the Toronto District Catholic School Board, teaching many grades and subjects over the years. She was passionate about her teaching, caring sincerely for her students, their families, and her fellow teachers. She was also a beautiful artisan who created many textile projects proudly displayed in her home and in those of her family members and friends. She appreciated and was supportive of the creative endeavours of others and always had a set of prismacolor pencil crayons on hand for anyone to use. In her youth, Deborah played piano to the 8th grade conservatory level. A great lover of music, she always had a record playing on Saturday mornings. Tina Turner albums were a favourite! An avid and enthusiastic reader who focused her university studies in literature, she loved recommending books to friends and then discussing them. She also loved flower gardens and everything colourful. Royal Botanical Gardens and Edward’s Gardens in Toronto were places she loved to visit. There was a generosity to Deborah that was expressed in all that she did for her family, friends, and students. An excellent cook and baker, she made the best oatmeal cookies—a recipe handed down from her lifelong friend, Jill Linkert (Jill’s grandmother’s recipe!). David Nakash was another dear friend, whom she met in later years. Deborah acknowledged birthdays and holiday celebrations with beautiful gifts, kind gestures, and fabulous recipes, making certain each person felt recognized and appreciated. She never missed singing Happy Birthday first thing in the morning to her daughter and grandchildren. Deborah gave from the heart all of her life, and she will live on in the hearts of those she has left behind. As her daughter, I was the recipient of much reassurance and wise guidance with a smile so genuine. Mom, you will always be cherished and never forgotten. Love you forever. ?? A celebration of life will be held at a later date.

Deborah Laevens

March 19, 1951 - June 16, 2023