Debra Jeanne Novakoski

It is with heavy hearts that the family shares the passing of Debra Novakoski (née George), who passed away peacefully at the age of 74 at the Lake of the Woods District Hospital. After fighting a three year long courageous battle with cancer, Debbi leaves behind her children; Cody Novakoski (Anita Miller), Cherie (Bryan) Hando and Cindy (Steve) Brennen, Hayden Roy (foster son) as well as her grandchildren, Brontë, McKeely, Lochlea, Levi and Grayson. Debbi was predeceased by her beloved husband Thomas John Novakoski, her father Eric Leroy George and her mother Alma Susan George.

Debbi was born in Kitchener Waterloo, ON, June 14th, 1952. In 1969, when she was seventeen years old, Debbi met her husband Tom while roller skating. They married on April 8th,1972, and went on to have her three children. Debbi's first job was at a variety store, she then worked at CIBC as a teller for six years and Unity Bank for one year before settling into her 19 year long career with Canada Post. Debbi and the family lived in Kitchener until 1986 when they made the move to Kenora, ON. After retiring from the Post office in 1998, Debbi and her husband fostered children for over 20 years.

Debbi enjoyed creating things with her hands. She liked to make quilts with her quilting group, knit, crochet blankets, clothing items, and baked goods. These items were gifted to the special people in her life. This was especially apparent within the last few years, her handmade blankets and shawls will remain treasured keepsakes for her loved ones. Debbi loved to camp with her family and long time friends. She loved shopping, going to yard sales, eating out, going to concerts and any other activity that allowed her to spend quality time with others. Debbi's kitchen was always a gathering place for the whole family where they would enjoy her cooking and Tom's famous Sunday soup.

Debbi will be remembered as a loving mother, devoted wife, cherished friend, and a truly remarkable woman. She was kind, compassionate, and always put the needs of others before her own. Her gentle heart, and caring nature touched the lives of everyone who had the privilege of knowing her. She had a beautiful way of making people feel loved. Her presence brought warmth and happiness wherever she went. Debbi's beautiful spirit will live on in the hearts of all who knew her. She will be deeply missed and forever remembered by everyone's life she touched.

The family would like to give a sincere thank you to the ladies at the chemo department and all homecare staff that were involved in her daily care towards the end of her life.

A Celebration of Life will be held October 3, 2026 12-3pm at the Rideout Community Club.