Debbie was the young supportive wife of Paul, who worked together with me maybe 30+ years ago. I’ve admired Debby as a loving Mother and wife, yet her own strong woman of super high values. Nancy and I have loved being with Debby and Paul over the years and we’re very sad to have lost Debby. With love to both. Nancy and Mike

My husband Mark and I first met Deb and Paul in a CF parent support group in Orange County.  Our two daughters, Stacy and Melissa were the same age and we were all trying to navigate the challenges of cystic fibrosis.  Deb and I were mother tigers and fiercely fought to get the best care for our children.  We relocated to Thousand Oaks and lost touch but Melissa kept us updated on Stacy.   Paul, Stacy, and Lisa, we are sorry for your loss.  Your are all in our prayers.

Debbie was the kindest, sweetest, most  loving cousin ever.  I admired her since childhood as my only older female cousin.  She was cool in every way to me and I wanted to be just like her.  Then as we grew into adults I admired her even more, as she married an amazing man, took care of her aging parents, raised 2 amazing daughters, and became a doting grandma to 3 beautiful grandchildren.  She always took a sincere interest in me and my family whenever we talked or had a visit. I will never forget Debbie and may her memory be a blessing to us all. ❤️

Paul and Family,
Sid and I are shocked to hear about the passing of Debbie. What a special, warm and loving soul. When we first met through our aupairs back when the kids were babies, we all shared that bond together with our family dinners and get togethers. Life happens and we stayed in touch at CF Luncheons every year and at TBE events. 
Our hearts go out to all of you. May Debbie’s memory be a blessing. 
With love, Bev & Sid Kritzstein

Paul, Lisa & Stacy, 
I'm so sad I can't be there in person to support you today. Debbie was such a sweet, special presence in my childhood years. I was always very fond of her and viewed you guys like family. I wish you all the peace and comfort during this sad, difficult time. Thinking of you and sending love from Texas.

Xoxo
Lindsey Stein

Sending love and comfort to you Paul and the girls.Loving memories of Debbie will be held dear to me. We had so many fun time scrapbooking here in Mission Viejo, up in the mountains and out in the desert. We would stay up to all hours of the night laughing. I will miss going to lunch or breakfasts and catching up on family news. Deb was a kind,sweet and caring person. She will always hold a special place in my heart ♥️

Thank you Debbie for always making me feel welcome when I visited your home: greeting me with a smile, hug, and being interested in what I had to say. You made your home a safe space, and it was filled with love. I could tell that you were so proud of Lisa and Stacy from the way you talked about them and shared what they were doing. It was obvious that you loved your family a lot. I will think of you often, and remember that warm, loving energy that you exuded. Thank you for letting me part of it.

We remember with  laughter the shared birthday party for Jonathan,  Lisa & Geoff (12/17  thru 12/19) with family and friends where the Deliema, Motenko and Keith families hired a clown to entertain the kids.  The clown was a complete disaster. She was mean and so unprofessional.  I looked at Debbie and our mouths were open, aghast, at this disaster.  But Debbie laughed and soon all of us were laughing .
What a great memory of Debbie’s beautiful smiling face. One that I will keep in my heart forever.

I was heartbroken to learn of Debbie's passing. My deepest condolences to the entire family during this incredibly difficult time.

Debbie and I shared 40 years of friendship, and I feel so fortunate for every bit of that time. She was steady, generous, and full of love, and she showed up for the people around her in ways big and small, year after year.

I also want to honor the incredible support she gave to the Cystic Fibrosis Foundation over the years. Her dedication to that cause touched more lives than she likely ever knew, and it was such a true reflection of her heart and her generosity.

Debbie leaves behind a legacy of love and kindness that will not be forgotten.

With love and deepest sympathy,

Meeting you more than twenty years ago, we connected as CF moms and quickly became friends. Over the years, we shared conferences, travels, vacations, laughter, love, light, and more than a few tears. I will always treasure those memories—and especially the fun we had together. The world is not as bright without your light in it, Deb. You will be forever missed and forever loved. 💕

OBITUARY

Debra Merle Motenko

October 28, 1954 – September 8, 2026

Harbor Lawn-Mt. Olive Memorial Park & Mortuary

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