Debra Lynn Dean, age 63 of Mishawaka, passed away with her family by her side on Friday, October 8, 2021.  Debbie was born June 13, 1958, in South Bend, Indiana.  She was preceded in death by her parents Lawrence Cook and Beverly (Rader) Smith.  Debbie was a graduate of LaSalle High School in South Bend. In 1996, she married Hubert “Ed” Dean in Las Vegas, Nevada. 

Ed survives, along with their sons Michael Hoffman, Zachary (Laura) Dean, and Dave Dean, all of Mishawaka.  Surviving as well is her grandson Tobias Hoffman, her stepsisters Janet Anglan and Rita Smith, both of Mishawaka, and Betty Oliver of South Bend, as well as her stepbrothers Roy Smith of Mishawaka and Jackie Smith of South Bend.  Her infant brother, Donald Rader preceded her in death.

Visitation will be held from 5-7 pm Wednesday, October 13, 2021, at Cruz Family Funeral Home in Osceola with a celebration of her life to follow at 7:00pm.  Debbie's family also asks that those who would like to continue the celebration of her life to prepare a dish to share and join them following her service at Mr. G's in Osceola from 7-9pm.  

Debbie spent her life caring for others.  She dedicated her life to caring for her sons and other family members who needed her help. Her generous heart and caring nature also led her to volunteer her time to help other families and she worked throughout the Michiana area with Dungarvin Indiana providing care for adults with special needs.  Her dedication to those in need earned her the “Indiana Good Samaritan Award” in 1995. 

She also loved the Fall season and spent many October nights working at Legend’s Scream Park as a character in the haunted house and doing custodial work for them after hours. 

Debbie and her family were also faithful attenders at Crossroads Community Church in Elkhart where she loved assisting with their community events like car shows and their annual “Boo Bash.”

Because Debbie believed in and supported Riley’s Hospital for Children, Crossroads Community Church, and the Ronald McDonald House charities, the family asks that memorial contributions be given in her memory to any of the three charities.

To leave a message of comfort for her family, light a virtual candle in her memory, or view her digital video tribute, please follow the links provided on the tribute wall tab above.

10/14/2021 JFC