Debra Kay Fitzpatrick-Wellik

We all lost a truly remarkable woman on December 2nd, 2025, when Debbie Fitzpatrick-Wellik passed away peacefully, surrounded by love. She was joined with the love of her life, Darrell, in her final resting place. Though she left us too soon at 75 years, Debbie's life was full, vibrant, and rich with faith, family, laughter, and deep friendships.

Debbie was born in Iowa to Richard Fitzpatrick and Phyllis Sass Fitzpatrick, who owned and operated a small family farm near Iowa City. Her early years were spent helping on the farm, playing alongside her brothers and cousins, and forming the strong family bonds that would define her life. Debbie was a proud graduate of St. Patrick's Grade School and Regina High School, and she continued her education at Ellsworth Community College and the University of Iowa. These formative years shaped her strong work ethic, deep faith, and lifelong love for family and tradition.

In 1980, Debbie moved to San Diego, California, joining Darrell Wellik, whom she married in September of that year. Together, they built a life in El Cajon rooted in love, partnership, and shared purpose. Their marriage was filled with mutual respect, laughter, and unwavering support, and Debbie remained devoted to Darrell even after his passing.

Debbie built an extraordinary professional life, dedicating over 50 years to the life insurance industry. Through her integrity, perseverance, and compassion for others, she eventually became a successful business owner-earning the trust and admiration of clients and colleagues alike.

Above all else, Debbie treasured her family. She was the proud mother of two daughters, a loving grandmother to two granddaughters and one grandson, and one great-granddaughter. She often said her family was her greatest blessing, and she lived that belief every day.

Debbie was a faithful Catholic, guided by prayer and her deep Irish spirituality. Irish blessings and sayings were woven into her daily life, reflecting her belief in love and gratitude. She found joy in life's simple pleasures-shopping trips, dressing up in high heels and fun jewelry, celebrating anything Irish, and sharing a glass of Carlo Rossi wine with family and friends.

Debbie is survived by her daughters Stephani Wellik-Zautner and Tonia Tutewohl (Paul), grandchildren Brandon Zautner (Karen), Brianna Zautner, Jade Carstensen (Taylor), great­ granddaughter Ava Hendrickson, siblings Ed Fitzpatrick (Beth), Tom Fitzpatrick (Jean), and Gary Fitzpatrick, along with numerous nieces, nephews, grand-nieces, grand-nephews, cousins, brother and sister in laws, and her many close friends, all of whom she loved dearly.

Debbie will be remembered for her loving heart, unwavering faith, vibrant sense of style, and her ability to make others feel special simply by being herself. Her life was one of devotion-to God, to family, and to living fully-and her legacy will continue through all who were blessed to know and love her.

Our Lady of Grace Catholic Church, where Darrell and Debbie have been longtime active members, will hold a funeral mass on January 9 at 11 am, 2766 Navajo Rd., El Cajon, CA 92020.

In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to the American Cancer Society or The Alzheimer's Association.