Rest In Peace, Debbie

It's odd how things happen, how you get those feelings...those instinctual reactions. Debbie passed away on Sunday, Mothers day. Thank you for all your prayers, thoughts and beautiful words. We are doing okay at this point, just trying to adjust. Spending a lot of time reminiscing, and preparing a memorial and celebration. Here is Debs obit:

Deborah Copstead, 55

Deborah Ann Copstead passed away peacefully at home surrounded by her family on Sunday, May 10, 2009. Poetically, the mother of all mothers accepted her eternal gift and went to be with The Lord on Mother’s Day.

Debbie was born March 25, 1954, in Coeur d’Alene, Idaho to Ray and Margery Capaul. As the first born of six, Debbie always knew how to rest the weary and keep an open heart and mind. Debbie moved to Seaside, Oregon, in 1976, where she met the love of her life, Chris. They resided on the coast for a short time with their four oldest children before moving back to North Idaho in 1981, planting their roots and growing their family yet again with the birth of their youngest son. For 30 years, Chris and Debbie lived side by side and left a legacy of marriage and love that will be held in high regard by their family and friends for years to come.

Debbie was a kind spirit with a soft heart that touched many, many lives. Her battle with ALS was short, but not from a lack of fighting. Her courage and character stayed intact through it all and was stronger than ever before. Her family and friends will remember her witty charm and bright smile, and will always hear her recite her favorite proverb, “Trust in the Lord with all your heart, on your own intelligence rely not. In all your ways be mindful of Him and He will make straight your paths.” (Proverbs 3:5-6)

Debbie is survived by her husband, Christopher; children Brent (Laura), Dain, Garad, Adrienne and Mitchell (Jina); grandchildren Sydney, Kristian and Preston; father Ray Capaul (Betty); mother Margery Capaul; brothers Robert (Eleanora) and Kenneth (Toni); sisters Diana (Joe Scott) Guild, Kathleen Capaul and Dorothy (Mark) Ladewig; numerous aunts, uncles, nephews, nieces, cousins and friends. Grandchildren Aiden and Wyatt precede Debbie in death.

A memorial service will be held at 1pm on Friday, May 15, 2009 at St. Thomas Catholic Church with a lunch to follow at St. Thomas Center. In lieu of flowers, please make your donations to ALSSO, MDA or Hospice of North Idaho. English Funeral Services is in care of arrangements.