Deborah "Debbie" Lee Svartoien

Deborah L. “Debbie” Svartoien, 64, of Cherry Valley, IL, passed away Monday, May 26, 2025, at OSF Saint Anthony Medical Center after a sudden illness. She was born September 14, 1960, in Rockford, IL, the daughter of Lavern and Eva (Purkeypile) Thurlby. She graduated from Auburn High School. Debbie married the love of her life, Roger Svartoien, on July 5, 1986, in Rockford.

Debbie is loved and will be missed by her husband, Roger; children, Bryan Svartoien and Amanda Svartoien; grandchildren, Justin Svartoien, Gannon Svartoien and Aislynn Mahorski; sister, Carol Thurlby; and nephews, Dylan Thurlby and Noah McGuire. She was preceded in death by her parents.

She shared many memories and love with Roger’s family, Larry and Judi Stansell, Ron and Nancy Svartoien, and Bill and Linda Lutz.

She was an adoring wife, mom, and grandma who loved spending time with her grandchildren. Debbie enjoyed spending time at the “Route 2” house, especially when the family and all childhood friends were enjoying golf cart rides and rides on the pontoon. She loved the little things in life, such as watching lifetime movies, Wheel of Fortune, and enjoying a cold beverage with Roger.

She was our rock! She was kindhearted and the type that would take her shirt off her back to help the next person. Not judgmental yet very blunt. She had dinner on the table every night. She loved music. Country, old-school rock, and rock and roll! We would end up dancing, in all the places in our garage. Her favorite color was purple.

Her closest childhood friends were Riley’s - Shelia, Bill, and Julie. Her very supporting longtime friends were the Richardsons – Anne, Kimberly, and Ryan.

She is not alone! She is with her parents, my parents, her best childhood friend Bruce Ryley, and very worthy friend Pat Richardson. We know they are taking care of her.

Deb, until we meet again, Rest In Paradise.

A celebration of life will be held from 12:00-5:00 p.m., Saturday, July 5, 2025, at the SMSF Club Park, 7625 Kishwaukee Road, Rockford, IL.