It is with broken hearts that we announce the passing of Deborah Elizabeth Kettles on November 2, 2021. Waiting to greet her was her father, George, Uncles Jack and Warren and Aunt Marion. Remaining here to continue her story are her husband John Kettles, mother Joan Beznoski, sons Jason (Becky) and Jody, grandchildren Jack, Piper, and Finn, brother Jamie (Heather), nephew and niece Ben and Samantha, cousins Torrie, Kim, and Brad and their families, and all of the people who were touched by her kind eyes and beautiful smile. Debbie was born on April 21st, 1954 and began her life in Winnipeg. As a young child, she moved to Milner Ridge where, as the first baby in the family, she was doted on by her uncles and grand parents, Joseph and Alice Visca. Debbie had fond memories of her youth in the tiny hamlet, often reminiscing about her attendance at Milner’s one-room schoolhouse and her favourite childhood toy, a backyard rock outcropping that she imagined to be her rocking horse. After Grade 8, Debbie attended LdBSS and became the first member of her family to graduate. She was a clever and dedicated student. Debbie married her high school sweetheart and from this union came her two beautiful boys and a life of service to others. She served our community as a radio dispatcher at MNR, sales associate at Pioneer and Robinsons stores, personal care aide at the PCH, bookkeeper for Kay Insurance, and, most memorably, as a store manager and support worker at Mrs. Lucci’s Resource Centre. It was here that Debbie welcomed all people into her midst offering them the dignity, respect, kindness, love, value, and belonging they needed and deserved. Debbie had very special relationships with her family. She married the love of her life and personal chauffeur, John, in 2005. You never saw one without the other. Joan tagged along on every road trip through town or down the highway. Debbie spoke with her baby brother often across the distance that separated them and planned something special for every in-person visit. She fulfilled her role as leader, care giver, and oldest cousin of the Visca brat pack. She never missed a Sunday night or holiday family dinner and brought her famous meatballs every time. She was her sons’ staunchest guardian, supporter, and protector. Their angel. In the end, Debbie’s greatest love was her three grandchildren. She spent a great deal of time telling them stories, watching cartoons, making lunches, watching hockey games and dance routines, and telling everyone who would listen that her grandchildren were the smartest, fastest, and best looking kids in town. They will miss their Nan terribly. Dearest Deb, “your life was a blessing, your memory a treasure. You are loved beyond words, and missed beyond measure.” A private Celebration of Life will take place in Milner Ridge next summer. If you would like to memorialize Debbie, please consider making a donation to the Lac du Bonnet Arena in her name.