Obituary of Debra Diane Riddell

In Loving Memory of Debra Diane Riddell
November 30, 1979 – March 24, 2025

With heavy hearts, we announce the passing of Debra Diane Riddell of Winnipeg, Manitoba. Debbie left us far too soon at the age of 45, leaving behind a legacy of laughter, love, and unforgettable memories.

Debbie was a devoted daughter, a beloved sister, and, above all, a proud and loving mother to her cherished son, Caine. Her family meant everything to her, and her heart was big enough to hold countless friends who became like family over the years. Her warmth and kindness were felt by everyone who had the privilege of knowing her.

Debbie’s most adored role in life was being a mom. From the moment Caine was born, she poured her heart and soul into motherhood. She was fiercely devoted, endlessly loving, and incredibly proud of the young man he has become. Being Caine’s Mom was her greatest joy and her proudest accomplishment.

She built a career as a dental assistant at Children’s Dental World where her gentle spirit and genuine care made every young patient feel safe and special. Her passion for helping others shone brightly in everything she did. She was one of the original assistants hired when CDW opened in 2007, setting the bar very high for those that followed. Debbie loved her work – and even more, she loved the people she worked with, creating a large extended family, that showed care and compassion every step of the way.

Outside of work, Debbie lived life to the fullest. She had an adventurous heart and a contagious laugh. She loved to travel, explore new places, and soak in every moment of joy. Whether she was shopping for the perfect outfit, reading a good book on her deck, dancing the night away, belting out karaoke tunes, watching movies at the theatre, sharing dinner and evenings out with friends - Debbie lived with energy and spirit that lit up the world around her.

She especially cherished time with her family. Holiday dinners always included turkey, mashed potatoes and gravy…didn’t matter which holiday, the menu was always set with the same three core dishes. She loved to go golfing, especially with Dad. They shared many rounds together over the years, and she would proudly let you know she scored better than Dad on one hole, once in her lifetime.  With Mom, she would indulge in BINGO nights out, where there were more sweats than wins, but a great time was guaranteed. She was her niece and nephews’ biggest fan, always seeming to capture their biggest moments on video, from hockey goals and saves, to baseball homeruns, she loved to watch them play.

Debbie and her brother had a language all their own - filled with sarcasm, inside jokes, and one-liners that left them grinning and giggling. Debbie and her sister were nearly inseparable, especially in the early years, it was always, simply "Deb and Jill". Their bond was deep and unbreakable.
“Sisters, sisters… There were never such devoted sisters…”

In October 2017, Debbie’s world changed forever when she was diagnosed with stage 4 colon cancer. Her doctor gave her six months to live - but Debbie had other plans. She fought with everything she had, going through 34 rounds of chemo in her first cycle and more than 70 rounds in total. She endured surgeries, treatments, and appointments with unmatched strength—gifting us seven more amazing years with her. Her determination to live, and to love through it all, was an inspiration to everyone around her.

To know Debbie was to love her. She made friends everywhere she went, listened deeply, laughed often, and loved with her whole heart.

Debbie is survived by her son, Caine; her mom, Connie; her brother, Christopher; her sister-in-law, Shannon; her sister, Jillian; and her nephews and niece, Carter, Jackson, and Caleigh. She is predeceased by her dad, Murray.

A celebration of Debbie’s life will be held on April 24, 2025, from 1:00–3:00 p.m. at the Norwood Community Centre, 87 Walmer Street, Winnipeg.

In lieu of flowers, the family asks that you honour Debbie’s memory by doing something she would have loved—sing your favorite song, take a walk in nature, watch an old 80’s movie, dance like no one’s watching, or simply tell someone you love them.

Forever in our hearts, Debbie - you were the best. We’ll carry your love and light with us always.