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Memorial List

Deborah Walker (Ryckman)

Deborah L. Ryckman
9/21/1950 - 11/7/2021

Omaha, NE - Debbie was born Deborah Lucille Walker in Caro, Michigan. She met her high school sweetheart Kirk Ryckman at age 16, in Saginaw Michigan. Their love grew and they married in 1970 while both were students at Michigan State University. During their 55-year-loving relationship, Kirk and Debbie supported each other through cross-country moves, new jobs, and the joys of raising two wonderful daughters.
 

Debbie became a teacher in 1972, primarily teaching first grade for 27 years. She took time from teaching to be a stay-at-home mother to her daughters. Debbie spent her last 20 years in the classroom at Millard Public Schools. Many children, parents, colleagues, and administrators felt the impact of her caring and effectiveness as a teacher of young students.

Debbie left a lasting impact on every person she met.  She had a gift for making everyone feel appreciated and special.  She was gentle and kind, a wonderful listener, and so very strong.

Debbie's family was of the utmost importance to her. She was a loving wife, mother, and grandmother. She loved family holidays, cooking, playing the piano, collecting Polish pottery, and quilting (or at least collecting fabric).

Debbie belonged to Presbyterian Church of the Cross, where she served as a deacon.  She was also a member of Delta Kappa Gamma, an organization of professional women educators, and P.E.O which supports the advancement of women and supports Cottey College.

She is survived by her loving husband, Kirk; two wonderful daughters and their husbands; Kara Chappell (Ryan), Lauren Ballou (Casey); 5 precious grandchildren: Sophie, Emma, Barrett, Hallie, and Cecelia; her sisters: Pam Gibson (Mike), Kim Putnam, and Susan Houlihan (Brad); nieces and nephews.

FUNERAL SERVICE: Saturday, November 13th at 11:00 am at Presbyterian Church of the Cross, 1517 S. 114th Street, Omaha, NE 68144.  A luncheon will follow.  In lieu of flowers, contributions may be sent to Presbyterian Church of the Cross where they will be channeled toward an endowed student scholarship through the Millard Public School Foundation.