December 20, 1958 – July 11, 2017
It is with great sadness the family of Debbie Byra, nee Hague, announces her passing after a long battle with cancer. Debbie was born in Calgary, Alberta on December 20, 1958 to Sam Audrey Hague. She grew up in Castlegar, BC, where her family raised horses.
An accomplished horsewoman, Debbie received numerous competition ribbons. Throughout her childhood and into her adolescence, Debbie excelled at track and field, winning many competitions and qualifying for provincials. In her teen years, the boy next door stole her heart, and Debbie married Leo Byra in 1977. With her husband by her side they built a beautiful life together. In the early 90’s, Debbie and Leo risked it all to open a small locksmith business, which they built up for 26 years. In recent years, Debbie discovered a love of golf and spent every spare moment on the golf course with Leo.
In 2015, Debbie was diagnosed with terminal lung cancer. Deb and Leo worked together, played together, and fought cancer together. Leo refused to accept the diagnosis, and spent countless hours researching better options. Through natural medicines, Leo extended Debbie’s life, and gave her the quality of life she needed to fight the terrible disease with grace and courage. Debbie lost her fight with cancer on July 11, 2017 at 58 years old.
Debbie leaves behind her devoted husband Leo, her father Sam, children Joshua and Colleen (Ian), brother Dan (Lynn), grandson Mason as well as many nieces and nephews. She was predeceased by her mother Audrey.
A funeral service will be held at the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints in Trail, BC on Saturday, July 22, 2017 at 11:30 am.
Refreshments to follow at 1:30 pm at the Royal Canadian Legion Branch #170, 428 Columbia Avenue, Castlegar.
In lieu of flowers, the family would appreciate donations in Debbie’s memory to the Cystic Fibrosis Foundation of Canada.
Castlegar Funeral Chapel in care of arrangements.
Offer Condolence for the family of Byra, Deborah Fern
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Susan Stasiuk
July 17, 2017 at 5:07 pmDear Uncle Leo, Colleen and Josh
My deepest sympathy to you all.
Love,
Susan Stasiuk
Teresa phillippe
July 17, 2017 at 5:07 pmMy thoughts and prayers are with you at this time. Please accept our condolences
Brian Mannle
July 17, 2017 at 8:57 pmDeb I’m going to miss you. You were a senond mom to me and I’m going to miss all the great talks and support you showed me through out my life R.I.P. Deb
Terry and Alison Jollimote
July 19, 2017 at 6:34 amSo very sorry to hear of Deb’s passing. Heartfelt condolences to Leo and all of the family.
Stan&Darlene
July 19, 2017 at 1:00 pmDeb you will live forever in our hearts. My deepest sympathy, and a message of condolences to Leo and family,Stan&Darlene and family.
Rachel Roberts (and Liz & Tim Phillips)
July 19, 2017 at 3:01 pmI am speechless; and I know that Deb would be shocked and have some witty comeback to me upon hearing me say that. I’m going to miss her so much. Even though we didn’t see each other as often or talk as much in the last few years, just knowing she isn’t only a phone call away will be very odd. Sending all my love, prayers and strength to the family to get through this difficult time. Hugs to you all, and remember that we all love you guys and are here if you need anything
Victor Budac
July 19, 2017 at 4:20 pmTo Uncle Leo and family
Our prayers are with you and your family during this time.
Love Pat, Victor Budac and family
Noella & Dave
July 20, 2017 at 9:31 amWe are so sorry for your loss Leo, Colleen (Ian) Mason , Joshua and Sam. We haven’t known Deb for years but we have become very good friends over the short time we have known each other, we will miss her dearly she was such a special lady, our heart breaks for all of you. I only wish I would have met her sooner, we had so much in common and had many laughs together. Debbie my friend rest in peace.
Susan Batting
July 21, 2017 at 8:32 amLeo
I am so very sorry to hear of Deb’s passing. She was a very loving person that was loved by many. You and your family are in my prayers. Deb is another angel watching over you all. She is free of pain and suffering.
She may be gone but she will never be forgotten…
The Red Dresser
July 22, 2017 at 12:19 pmLeo,
You and Deb have been such an inspiration and help to me as I started my business! I know that Deb’s spirit & positive energy will guide you through this time and carry you into the future. I am very lucky to have known Deb & will never forget her.
Love & Hugs, Annette