Deborah Kaye Zuidema passed away from Covid on Monday, October 11, 2021, with her family by her side. She was 63.
Debbie was born on March 28, 1958, in Helena, Montana to loving parents Elmer Cole and Shirley Price Cole. Debbie was the oldest of six children and took her role as big sister seriously, welcoming her siblings to the family with all the love and attention she could provide. Throughout her life, she maintained that loyalty to her family, remaining close with her siblings, nieces, nephews, and cousins.
Debbie was a hometown girl, attending Helena area schools, and taking accounting courses at Carroll College. During her career, she worked for the IRS as a collection agent, dedicated to helping individuals work through difficult tax situations. After leaving the IRS, Debbie joined Morrison-Maierle, using her smartly honed accounting and tax skills as an accounting technician.
Debbie was dedicated to her children, Michael and Karri Zuidema, and considered their individual achievements her proudest moments. She was looking forward to welcoming her first grandchild later this year.
Despite Debbie’s joy for life, she suffered with chronic asthma and other medical conditions throughout her life. She credited her faith in Jesus and her family with helping her fight through illnesses. She loved to travel, accompanying her daughter to the Special Olympics World Games in North Carolina, and spending time with her family in Las Vegas and experienced one of her bucket list items by attending the Miss America pageant. She was known throughout the family for her love of pansies, family history, and small everyday items she treasured from her grandmother. No holiday or celebration was complete unless it included a marathon tournament of Liverpool Rummy.
Debbie loved all animals, from her spoiled little Yorkies, Nigel and Sadie to her pet cockatiel, Zoe whom she once performed mouth to beak resuscitation.
Debbie was preceded in death by Father Elmer Cole, who died in September, and her brother Bobby Cole who died at the age of 16. She is survived by her son, Michael Zuidema (Shanna), daughter Karri Zuidema, Mother Shirley Price Cole, Sisters; Kathy Scanlan (Dave), Connie Cole-McLaughlin, Wendy Voeller (Michael), Brother Raymond Cole, Brother-in-Law, John McLaughlin.
Debbie adored her nieces and nephews: Jenna Kane (Brian), Conor Scanlan (Cecilia), Kaitlyn Scanlan, Lexie Bass (Erik), Whitney McLaughlin, Ashton McLaughlin, Madison McLaughlin, Kelsey Voeller, Karissa Voeller, Dylan Voeller, Rob Cole (Heather) and Sam Cole. Great Aunt to Aria and Augie Kane, Vivian and Hazel Bass, Landyn and Oaklyn Cole.
Debbie dearly loved her Aunts, Ginny Kalchbrenner and Penny Price along with many cousins, co-workers, and friends.
Debbie’s legacy will live on with her friends and family, especially for those who followed her example in using the names “Papa” and “Auntie Bay” for a beloved grandmother and great aunt.
Debbie and her family thank the Doctors and Nurses at St Peter’s Hospital for their compassionate care over the years. Especially the exemplary treatment she received from the intensive care unit these past two weeks.
Viewing will be held on Friday, October 15th at Andersen-Stevenson Wilke Funeral Home from 4:00 p.m. to 6:00 p.m., A celebration of Debbie’s life will be at 11:00 a.m. on Saturday, October 16th at the funeral home. A reception will follow the service in the social hall of the funeral home. Debbie’s favorite color was purple, so please feel free to wear purple for the celebration. Memorial donations to honor Debbie may be sent to the Special Olympics Tri-County Montana, an organization near and dear to Debbie’s heart would be greatly appreciated. https://support.specialolympics.org/a/montana.
“Love you sweets” quote from Debbie Zuidema
Service Schedule
Viewing
4 p.m. to 6 p.m.
Friday October 15, 2021
Anderson Stevenson Wilke Funeral Home
3750 N. Montana Ave
Helena, Montana 59602
Memorial Service
11 a.m.
Saturday October 16, 2021
Anderson Stevenson Wilke Funeral Home
3750 N. Montana Ave
Helena, Montana 59602
Reception
Following the Memorial Service
Saturday October 16, 2021
Anderson Stevenson Wilke Funeral Home
3750 N. Montana Ave
Helena, Motnana 59602
Service Schedule
Viewing
4 p.m. to 6 p.m.
Friday October 15, 2021
Anderson Stevenson Wilke Funeral Home
3750 N. Montana Ave
Helena, Montana 59602
Memorial Service
11 a.m.
Saturday October 16, 2021
Anderson Stevenson Wilke Funeral Home
3750 N. Montana Ave
Helena, Montana 59602
Reception
Following the Memorial Service
Saturday October 16, 2021
Anderson Stevenson Wilke Funeral Home
3750 N. Montana Ave
Helena, Motnana 59602
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Margaret Woo says
To Debbie’s family,
I am so sad to learn of Debbie’s untimely passing. She was all about helping people all the time, and she always did it with a smile. I will always be grateful for her assistance to my clients when she worked for the IRS. I am deeply sorry for your loss.
Russell Lay says
I will miss Debbie. She was one of my favorite people down in the accounting department. Whenever I had an accounting question I loved going to see Debbie. She reminded me of my mom, and was always so helpful and kind. I will miss seeing her at work.
My sincere condolences to her family. Debbie is with the Lord now.
Kim and Henry Flatow says
Karri, Michael and all of Debbie’s family: our deepest sympathy to everyone of you. We first met Debbie over 40 years ago when our children went to the same daycare. It has been close to 22 years since she moved nextdoor. She was a great neighbor. From helping her and Karri shovel snow or mow lawns, she was also so cheerful. I spoke with her the day she was diagnosed with Covid. She was so upbeat about her recovery because she had been fully vaccinated. The world will be a little sadder and not as sunny with her gone. Karri and Michael, she loved you with every fiber of her being. Bless everyone and hold your memories until you meet again.
Sue Dugan says
Zuidema family: I had the pleasure of working with Debbie over the past 15+ years. Debbie was such a sweetheart, so kind, so passionate about things she loved (her children, Special Olympics, the USA, her critters, and all things purple, to name a few!). I will miss her smiling face and friendly demeanor in the office. You are all in my thoughts and prayers. Fly high, Debbie.
Jenny Boyd says
To Zuidema Family I am so sorry for your loss Debbie she was a great Lady she will be missed.R.i.p.Debbie
Ann Marie Bushong says
I am so sorry to hear of the passing of Debbie. I worked with her at the IRS where I got to know her. She always put her family first. Debbie always seemed to make things work in spite of her health issues. Condolences and prayers to her family.
Donna Owens says
To Karri and the Deb’s entire family,
I’ve had a shortness of breath since I learned of Deb’s passing, my tears keep coming for a woman & friend who left her imprint on my life in so many ways. My heartfelt sympathy to all of Deb’s family. Take in all the deep breaths possible, wave Old Glory as high as you can, be at peace my friend and love you too “sweets”…. until we meet again ~
Leanne Knudson says
I had a good times with Debbie in special Olympic When I was kid
Matt Lowney says
I remember spending countless hours at Debbie’s place hanging with Mike growing up. She was always so cheerful and funny. I remember her taking us to stock car races and other fun events. She visited me when I was home during my cancer treatment and was always a big cheerleader.
So very sorry for your loss Mike and Karri
Dave and Joe Schettine says
My father and I are sorry to hear of Debbie’s passing. Our heats go out to her whole family, especially to Karri and Micheal. Karri was my special friend and Debbie always helped when we were in Special Olympics.
Angie Benedetti says
Debbie was the most generous human I have ever met. She was always giving and donating at every opportunity. May we all be inspired by her generosity and selflessness.
You are deeply missed, my Friend!
Sandy Luthy says
Debbie sure will be missed at work! I was not in the same office as Debbie but she had a special knack of making a person’s day just by talking to her on the phone. She was the sweetest woman and cared deeply for those around her. Her light will continue to shine through those she has touched.
Rona Keech says
Debbie was the kindest person I ever met and it was such an honor working with her over the last 14+ years. So patient and funny. I’ll miss you Debbie. Rest easy now.
Duane Harris says
I worked with Debbie for several years at the IRS and I always found her to be a lot of fun to be around. She suffered through a lot of health issues throughout the years but never seemed to dwell on them. She was a great person and I am so sad that we lost her. My thoughts and prayers to her family.
Sheila Fauth says
Debbie was the sweetest, most kindest person I have ever known. I worked with her for many years and she was a great friend and coworker. I will miss her deeply. I loved sharing doggy tales with her. Sending prayers and healing thoughts to everyone who was touched by her to get through this tough time.
Carolyn DeMartino says
I worked with Debbie at the Montana Agricultural Statistics Data Collection Center. Debbie was always such a joyful person. Her positive attitude and cheerful personality helped me through many a night. Her eyes would absolutely light up when she talked about her dogs, her family, and Special Olympics! My thoughts and prayers are with all the lives she lovingly touched.
Patty Kercher says
Debbie has always been a bright spot in my day. I count it all joy that I was able to work with her. I extend by deepest sympathy to her family and work family.
Fred LeLacheur says
I worked with Debbie at Morrison-Maierle. She was always in the best of spirits, from her constant smile and warm voice. It was a true joy to know her.
Debbi King says
Debbie was one of my good friends when I lived in Helena. I spent many great times with her and Karri. I am so sorry to hear of her passing but I know she is in a better place with Jesus! All my love and prayers to her family ♥♥♥
Lacey (Spurlock) Forrey says
Debbie was one of my favorite people, at work and in life. She was always in a great mood and brought a smile to my face each time I saw her. She was everyone’s biggest cheerleader and always asked me about what my kids were up to. She was so excited each time my son won the football pool, probably more than he was! Once I found out she grew up with my Dad, I enjoyed hearing the tales of their adolescents. My deepest sympathies to her family, she was a remarkable human.
Mary Hall says
So sorry to hear of Debbie’s passing. She was such a god sent to all of us that worked at Galusha’s with her help in our client’s tax problems with the IRS. She was always so up beat and kind. Rest in peace Debbie.
Tracie Fladeland says
My heart is broken for those of us who will miss Debbie and her nurturing kindness. She was always the one who volunteered to help even if it meant getting behind with her own work load. I will forever think of her when I see a hot rod car, admire the color purple or hear an Alan Jackson song or more famously in her book (The Teccas)! She was one in a million and more 💜 “Thanks Babe” 💜
Tana Greenfield says
Debbie will be missed by everyone that knew her. She was the sweetest and kindest person I’ve ever had the privilege of having in my life. The moments I shared with her will be cherished forever. I’m sure wherever she is, she’s sipping on Crown and listening to Trace Adkins. Cheers to you Toots!
Cindy Edgmond says
Debbie could always put a smile on your face. Her warm, kind spirit would fill you up, and poof – you would smile. Her kindness was contagious and having had the privilege of her friendship, her memory will always be treasured.
Alan Erickson says
Thoughts and prayers to the Zuidema Family on the loss of a truly special person that can not be replaced. We can all cherish the memories we have of Debbie with the joy and kindness that she brought to everyone, and her spirit is one that I will always carry with me. While I won’t quite be able to quite root for her Raiders this weekend versus the Broncos, I will do our customary Jack Daniels toast to whoever the winner may be. God speed Miss Debbie.
Nancy Tyanich says
I’m so sorry to hear of Deb’s passing. I worked with her at the I.R.S., for many years. She was dedicated to her job trying to help taxpayers out. She will be missed.
Melody and Earl Grant says
Debbie was such a gift to the Tri-county Wolves Special Olympics team. The athletes, the parents and coaches are all going to miss her so much. Debbie enjoyed all the exploits of our son Kip, and he loved her and teasing her. We were blessed to have known her for the last many years and enjoyed all of our time with Debbie and Karri and all of the Special Olympics activities, practices and games. We will miss our friend, her smile and humor, and how caring she was towards all of us. Rest in peace Debbie, we know you will watch over us all.
Noreen Raynor says
I am so sorry and so sad hearing of Debbie’s death. She will be so missed by anyone who knew her, but especially the TriCounty Wolves Special Olympians. She had been involved with the kids for over 25 years. She dedicated so much of her time and talents to the Olympians, going to all their meets, organizing the trips and all that’s involved in making it all come together. I met her through SO and my daughter and Karri have been friends all these years. My heart aches for Karri as they were so close. RIP Debbie.
Linda Balcerzak says
when I first met Debbie in 82 at the IRS she was a 96 pound beauty (even after having 2 kids) with long curly dark hair and a ready smile. then one day she had a bad headache & took a couple of aspirins (she didn’t know she was allergic). The ambulance picked her up within 20 minutes. She told me she was sure she died at least once during that experience. Not long after that she was diagonized with ashma.
I remember once time she had me take her to the ER after sitting next to someone with strong aftershave. So my friend Cindy and I helped her into my van. On the way a dog ran out in front of me causing me to slam on my brakes. This caused the back door to the van to open. I am sure that blast of cold fresh air provided enough oxygen to get her to the hospital. Needless to say that was the last of the 2 times she asked me to take her to the hospital.
Unfortunately when she changed jobs, we lost contact.
I will always remember Debbie for her ready smile, good nature and willingness to help anyone and everyone. She will be missed.
Florence H Shaw says
Such a special and kind individual. Deb helped me through IRS issues many years ago and had it not been for her I do not know what would have happened.
Way too soon.
RIP and know you left your mark on many people.
Jones family says
Debbie you’ll be missed terribly you ran the wolves team well and kept us in line alwaysfriendlyto all ….fly free and let your happiness spread and blanket us all
Sheri karri and edwin
Jason Mercer says
Zuidema Family you are in our thoughts and prayers during this difficult time. I know that heaven got a very sweet and kind lady and they have welcomed her with open arms! Debbie was such a pleasure to work with and be around. Whenever her name popped up on my phone, I knew I probably did something wrong on my expense report that week, but I knew are conversation would leave me with a smile on my face. I always appreciated her approach to life and work. She will be missed!
Luke Carlson says
I always enjoyed opportunities to work with Debbie. She always left me with a smile. I am so thankful that she knew Jesus and I am looking forward to seeing her again in Glory. I pray the promise of eternal life in Jesus is a comfort to you, her close family, through this difficult time.
Ardis Kay Loberg says
I met Debbie while volunteering at GFWC (General Federation of Womens Clubs), where she cheerfully volunteered in whatever way she could, always with grace and a deep sense of calm. Her parents, and mine, had been acquainted for many years, and through the terrible loss of a son in both families. Our deep condolences to all the family, and especially to her mother, from the Whitman family.
Michael says
Thank you all for the kind and supporting words and memories. my aunts Connie, Wendy and Kathy did and amazing job helping family and friends remember my mother. She was sent off in an amazing way!
Kathleen Broussard says
I absolutely loved working with Debbie at the IRS. I am so sorry for your loss. Our thoughts and prayers are with you and your family.
Keith, Kathleen and Kory Broussard
Cary says
Debbie worked with my mom Leona and friends called her punkie she was a good friend to mom and helped with any questions with tax questions she was a fantastic person and will greatly be missed I use to babysit for her she was always smiling and happy.sorry for you loss Karri and Michael if you need anything you know how to get ahold of me love you sweety.