SHIMEK, Debra

    With broken hearts and sadness, we announce Deb passed away peacefully on December 31, 2023 at the High River General Hospital after a four-year battle with cancer. Deb was resilient throughout her battle, never complained and always had a positive attitude.

    Deb was born in Lethbridge, AB. It was there where she went to school, met her husband and started her family. Deb worked as an accountant and was employed by several oil and gas companies in the Turin and Calgary areas until her retirement.

    Besides her love of camping, thanks to Ryan and Sherry’s wedding she developed a love for going on cruises. Her favourite destinations were to Alaska and the Panama Canal. Deb became an avid quilter after she retired and made some beautiful ones for her family and close friends. Sadly, there are a few that she was unable to complete, but you can see the love she put into them.

    Family was extremely important to Deb. She created a very large one that encompassed more than just relatives, it included many dear friends. Some of her happiest memories included huge meals created with everyone packed into the kitchen laughing or gathering in the backyard for a BBQ. She was well known for making everyone feel welcome.

    Deb was predeceased by her father and mother, Robert and Eileen Blenner-Hassett. Deb is survived by her husband of 51 years Jerry Shimek; children Nichole (Dale) Heisler, Geri-Lyn (James) McOuat, and Ryan (Sherry) Shimek; grandchildren Ashley (Kyle) Morrison, Wyatt, Brooke, & Grace Heisler, Lillian & Henry Shimek; great-grandchildren Emersyn & William Morrison. Her pups & grand pups were always held in a special place in her heart – Sasha, Millie, Lucy, Marvin, Freddy and Indy-Anna.

    Deb is also survived by her brother Bill (Karen) Blenner-Hassett, her sisters Robbie Innes and Betty (Ed) Montsko, and many nieces and nephews.

    The family would like to send out a huge thank you to Dr. Chu from the Tom Baker Cancer Clinic for her kindness and support. We also want to thank the Doctors and Nurses at the High River General Hospital Community Cancer Centre, Emergency Room and the 3rd floor Care Staff and Volunteers. Your friendliness, care and compassion were so appreciated, and Deb talked about your kindness all the time. Thank you to the Okotoks Fire Rescue and EMT services for your gentle and compassionate care.

    As per Deb’s wishes, a small private family service will be held at a future date.

    In lieu of flowers we would be honored if you could please donate to the High River Health Foundation (highriverhealthfoundation.ca). The hard work and care this group put in can be seen in action at the Hospital and in the Cancer Clinic. Thank you.

     Arrangements are being taken care of by Snodgrass Funeral Home in High River.