COOKE, Deborah Marie

Passed away peacefully in her sleep on January 17, 2019, at the age of 61, at her home in Elora, Ontario. Debbie was a woman of survival and grace, all in one, and all the time. She was courageous yet at times enigmatic to people, and she had the magic in her to see opportunity when life got in the way. Born June 25, 1957 in East York, Toronto, she made her livelihood in the Toronto entertainment industry. She worked in various capacities as a production coordinator, then as a special-effects producer, and later as an animation executive producer. A highly creative soul, Debbie had a passion for painting and it became a challenge she undertook. As always, Debbie went in both feet first and excelled at it: her work was shown in numerous Toronto-based art shows and was also accepted into the New York City Art Show on her first try. Debbie also had a way with words, and reading books and writing were her other great passions. After graduating from The Humber College School for Writers, Debbie continued to pursue her pleasure of research-based fictional writing in both long and short forms. After beating blood lymphoma cancer, Debbie left Toronto and retreated to the beauty of Elora, in order to live a simpler, more rewarding life. There, she continued to work remotely as an animation producer and more recently as a coordinator at a local arts centre. Debbie always volunteered to help at art and music festivals while living in Elora, and became well known by many local residents. A walk down the streets of Elora with Debbie was always punctuated by numerous meets and greets. Debbie leaves her son Michael Evan Powers and ex-husband Jeffery Powers, sisters Sandy, Terry, Vida (Justin and Willa), and Emilia; brothers Ryan (Melissa, Ethan, Emera and Ella), Ben, and Randy; Aunt Carol and cousin Amber. Among many others, Debbie will be deeply missed by her friends Penny, Alywin, Christine and Tim, Bev, Kate, Kathy, Ann, Katie, Paul and Andres (Helen, Donald, Dagmar). Debbie will be especially remembered for her love of travel, movies, hiking, biking, and xc skiing in nature, and her fascination, love and respect for all animals, especially the furry loves of her life, her cats Buddy and Gracie. One of those rare people with a pure heart, Debbie always wanted to help, thus making your life better, and helping you be a better person. Persevering throughout life’s trials, she always had a fascinating story to share. Her wit and intelligence, along with an enduring smile and contagious laughter, would always cheer up your dullest of days. As per her wishes, cremation has taken place. A celebration of life will be announced in the early spring. In lieu of flowers, hug your friends and family.