Obituary of Debra Ann Crouse

CROUSE, Debra Ann, 69, of Mattatall Lake and formerly of Fort Ellis, passed away peacefully on March 3, 2025, at the East Cumberland Lodge in Pugwash.

Debbie was born on October 31, 1955, in Portage la Prairie, Manitoba, to the late Louis and Ethel (MacKenzie) Lalonde. Being part of an Air Force family, Debbie had the opportunity to travel and live in various communities across Canada, as well as spending time in Germany, before her family eventually settled in Truro. That spirit of adventure and travel continued throughout her life – whether it was traveling to ball tournaments, hockey games, dance competitions and recitals, or exploring the countryside on the back of a motorbike, snowmobile, 4-wheeler, or side-by-side. Her adventures also took her to memorable places like Nashville, Sugarloaf, and many sunny getaways down south.

Debbie was a devoted wife, mother, grandmother, daughter, sister, aunt, and friend. Her family and friends meant the world to her, and she cherished each relationship with all her heart.

Debbie is survived by her loving husband of 45 years, Mike; children, Randy (Laura) of Antigonish, and Amber (Scott) of Halifax; and grandson, Gehrig. Being a grandmother (Nan) was a role that brought her immense pride. ‘Her Boy’ Gehrig was the light of her life, and she took great pleasure in watching him grow and thrive.

Debbie is also survived by her brothers, Daryl of Belleville, Ontario and Ken (Deborah) of Hilden. She is also lovingly remembered by numerous nieces, nephews, and extended family. She was predeceased by her father-in-law, Glen; mother-in-law, Ruth; and brother-in-law, Harold.

The family would like to extend their heartfelt gratitude to the staff at East Cumberland Lodge for the exceptional care and support they provided over the last two years. Staff treated Mom with kindness and respect, ensuring she maintained her dignity. Our family is forever grateful.

Cremation has taken place. A Celebration of Life will be held from 1-4pm Saturday, March 8, 2025 with the eulogy scheduled for 2pm, at Ettinger Funeral Home, 2812 Main Street East, Shubenacadie. Burial will occur at a later date in Pine Grove Cemetery in East Stewiacke.

Family flowers only please. In lieu of flowers or donations, the family asks that you spend quality time with your loved ones, as that is what brought Debbie the most joy.

Condolences, words of comfort, and remembrances of Debbie may be shared at www.ettingerfuneralhome.com.