Debra Lee Yonkers

Debra Yonkers was a one-of-a-kind woman, truly her own person, who always enjoyed doing things on her own steam. She was a loving and devoted mother, and a loyal daughter, sister and friend. Most of all, Debra was a woman who showed us that true strength comes from within.

Debra's story began on a cool spring day in 1963, in the beautiful beachfront town of Holland, Michigan. Those were such turbulent times in this country, when Martin Luther King fought for racial equality, and President John F. Kennedy was assassinated in Dallas. There was so much uncertainty in those times, yet for Dave and Mary Van Tubbergen of Holland, they found a little glimmer of hope that spring, as they were expecting a new addition to the family. On March 21, 1963, they welcomed a baby girl into the world, a daughter they named Debra.

Debra was later joined by her younger brother Scott in the Van Tubbergen home in Holland, and she attended Holland Public Schools. She graduated from Holland High School in 1981.

Growing up, and throughout her lifetime, Debra had a true passion for the outdoors, and loved to be out under the sun or stars. She loved going to the beach, especially Holland State Park, where she enjoyed so many sun-kissed days and star-filled evenings, while camping with her beloved mom and aunt.

Debra also loved to work in her beautiful garden, lovingly caring for her wonderful flowers she grew or the delicious vegetables she brought to life. Debra's favorite meal was tacos, and she would cut her vegetables in perfect slices for her Mexican treats.

Debra was a very independent person, who was always content to be by herself, and in fact valued her quiet time greatly. She was an animal lover, and loved her dogs and her cat she kept for companionship, but she enjoyed her independence always.

Debra was blessed with two people she cared about more than anything, her two sons, Mitchell and Joshua. Debra had a deep love for her boys, and always wanted to be a part of their lives.

Debra worked for Home Health Care, where she helped others maintain their independence as they dealt with challenges. She was also a member of the Ganges Baptist Church, and her faith and own inner strength helped Debra cope with her own challenges, as she courageously battled cancer.

Sadly, Debra died September 25, 2006, a bright, sunny fall Monday at her home. Debra was a unique woman, an independent spirit, who more than anything, was a true individual. She was a beloved mother, daughter, sister and friend, but most of all, Debra was always her own person. We're so much better for knowing her.

Debra Lee Yonkers, age 43, of Holland, died on Monday September 25, 2006 at her home after a courageous battle with cancer.

She is survived by her sons, Mitchell Paul Yonkers and Joshua Thomas Yonkers, both of Allegan; her parents, Dave and Mary Van Tubbergen of Holland; her brother and sister-in-law, Scott and Kathy Van Tubbergen of Holland; and her nephews and niece.

Funeral Services will be held on Thursday at 11:00am at Ganges Baptist Church, 6577 122nd Avenue, Ganges with Rev. Tom Case officiating.

Visitation will be held on Wednesday from 7-9pm at the Dykstra Lifestory Funeral Homes, Mulder Chapel, 188 West 32nd Street.

Burial will take place at Graafschap Cemetery.

Memorial Contributions may be given to Hospice of Holland or Ganges Baptist Church, 6577 122nd Avenue, Ganges, MI.

Arrangements by Dykstra Life Story Funeral Homes, Inc., Mulder Chapel, www.lifestorynet.com