Deborah Gay VandenBrink (previously Kooy) (nee LeBlanc), passed away on Wednesday, September 13, 2023, at home, surrounded by her loving family, after a hard-fought battle with cancer. Deborah fought this long, difficult battle with all her heart and soul and will forever be remembered for her unrelenting strength and courage.
Deborah was born on September 26, 1953, in Toronto. She is the very precious first-born child of Robert (predeceased) and Margaret (nee Bryant) LeBlanc, dear sister to Denise Newton (nee LeBlanc), Evan LeBlanc (predeceased) and wife, Janet Green (previously LeBlanc) (nee Matheson), and Dawn LeBlanc. Deborah attended Ryerson Polytechnical Institute where she earned her Bachelor of Applied Arts in Interior Design. Her true passion for interior design was not only expressed in her sense of style, meticulous nature, and the care and consideration she put into her own home, but also in the homes of her many clients, whom she prided herself in serving over many years. She was a true credit to her profession.
Deborah (Deb) remarried on September 12, 2009, to Colin VandenBrink. Those who knew Deb and Colin knew of their unique story and how their reuniting was serendipitous.
Beyond Deborah’s many professional and personal achievements, she was first and foremost the most thoughtful, loving, and caring daughter, sister, wife, mother, Oma, and friend. She cherished getting together with her special friend group the “Magnolia Ladies.” It was during these get togethers she found joy and happiness in being her true self.
Deborah was fond of camping (or “glamping,” as she liked to say), countryside drives, visiting unique places, and everything knitting, especially the most beautiful intricate throws, which she painstakingly made for those she loved. She also enjoyed sharing stories and photos to stay connected with those she held near and dear to her heart. It was Deborah’s kind and caring nature to always offer to help those in need; to do anything for anyone, at any time, without hesitation. This was especially true for her children.
Deborah will be forever loved and greatly missed by her husband, Colin, and her children, Steven and Laura Kooy (spouse Alex Junko), Danielle van den Brink (husband Alan Lewis), and Samantha VandenBrink (predeceased); dearly loved and cherished by her mother Margaret LeBlanc; bonded forever with her sisters, Denise and Dawn; remembered fondly by her loving nieces and nephews; Rachel, Joshua, Rebecca, Matthew, Melanie, and Ethan, as well as her treasured grandchildren, Harper and Hudson, and the extended VandenBrink family.
A private interment with immediate family members will take place on what would have been Deborah’s 70th birthday, Tuesday, September 26, at Glendale Memorial Gardens in Toronto. A Celebration of Life will take place at a later time.
In lieu of flowers, Deborah’s family asks that donations be made to Royal Victoria Regional Health Centre Foundation in appreciation for all the care shown to Deborah by the staff and volunteers and for all that they do for those living with cancer.
Online memories and condolences may be forwarded via www.steckleygooderham.com