Claudia Kost Kost Debus

Claudia Kost Debus, a loving, beautiful, and cheerful wife, mother, and grandmother, was known for her outward affection for her husband, four children, five grandchildren, numerous dogs, and many friends. Claudia’s sunny disposition was impossible to resist regardless of your mood; once she spotted you, you couldn’t help but be moved by her radiant smile and genuine warmth. Visiting friends and family were always greeted with big hugs, making our home a popular place for everyone to gather throughout the years.

Claudia was born in Chicago, Illinois on October 7, 1935 to the late Gus and Billie Kost. She entered Heaven’s gate on January 19, 2017. Claudia was an amazing mother who loved her family dearly. Her family and friends will forever miss Claudia’s beautiful smile, infectious laugh, and loving spirit.

Claudia met Dave, the love of her life, in 1956 and they married in 1957. Claudia embraced the challenge of being an Air Force wife with grace and enthusiasm. As the family moved to each new assignment, Claudia’s love for her family was exhibited as she helped her children acclimate to new schools and friends while making each new base housing unit a warm and loving home. Claudia’s most cherished role though, was that of grandmother. Once her grandchildren entered the house, they were greeted with smiles, hugs, and kisses. Claudia and her grandchildren would spend countless hours baking cookies, creating delightful art from the “craft box”, and playing “store” in the basement. Claudia was an enthusiastic supporter of her children and grandchildren’s activities. She and Dave travelled miles to attend a grandchild’s dance competition, ballet recital, band concert, orchestra concert, or soccer game.

Claudia had several jobs throughout her life, but the job most suited to her was her Assistant Teacher position at St. Aiden’s Preschool. Babies and toddlers were of particular delight to Claudia. She was at her happiest when surrounded by “little people,” engaging them in fun, playful activities, story telling time, and comforting them with a reassuring hug during their sad moments.

Claudia was an active member of Aldersgate United Methodist Church. She sang with the Grace Notes choir, volunteered at the Route One Community Kitchen (R.O.C.K.), was a member of the Women’s Prayer group, and helped prepare foods for funerals or other events at the church.

Claudia was predeceased by her faithful and loving husband of 59 years, David L. Debus. Claudia is survived by her daughter Lori Wright and husband Henry; her son David Debus and wife Christine; her daughter Linda Finnerty and husband Michael; her daughter Marjy Lynch and husband Doug; five grandchildren Lacey Wright, Charlene Debus and husband Tyler Valadez, Kelsey-Rose Debus, Kinsey Lynch, and Charles Lynch; Cousin Debbie Wartell and husband Dave; sister-in-law Judy Peterson and husband Charles; and many nieces, nephews, and furry grand dogs.

A celebration of Claudia’s life will be held on Saturday, February 11, 2017 at 11:00 AM at Aldersgate United Methodist Church, 1301 Collingwood Road, Alexandria, Virginia. Interment at Arlington National Cemetery with her beloved husband will be held on March 17, 2017 at 3:00 PM. Professional services entrusted to the staff at Demaine Funeral Home, 5308 Backlick Road, Springfield, VA.

The family would like to express their gratitude to Melrose, Tenneh, Eretimy, and Grace for their loving and attentive care of our mom during her final months, as well as our Capital Caring hospice team and the staff at Aarondale Assisted Living.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Aldersgate Day School or the Alzheimer’s Association National Capital Area Chapter, 8180 Greensboro Drive, Suite 400, McLean, Virginia 22102.

Arrangements under the direction of Demaine Funeral Home, Springfield, VA.