IN LOVING MEMORY OF

Deborah

Deborah Starewich Profile Photo

Starewich

May 16, 1958 – October 25, 2025

Obituary

Deborah Sue Starewich, 67, of New Haven, Indiana, passed away peacefully on Saturday, October 25, 2025, surrounded by her family, after courageously fighting ALS. Though she has now lost her battle with this devastating disease, Deborah is finally at peace, free from suffering, and rejoicing in Heaven as her faith declares: "Do not let your hearts be troubled. You believe in God; believe also in me. 'My Father's house has many rooms… I am going there to prepare a place for you. And if I go and prepare a place for you, I will come back and take you to be with me that you also may be where I am'." John 14:1-3. Born in Fort Wayne, Indiana, on May 16, 1958, Deborah was the beloved daughter of Alfred LeRoy Samra and Darla A. Samra, both of whom survive her. She was a proud graduate of New Haven High School (Class of 1976). She worked at BF Goodrich upon graduation and then dedicated nearly 30 years of service to Purdue University in West Lafayette, where she was admired for her professionalism, warmth, and kindness. She also shared her love of literature and culture as a Publishing Editor for Bordighera Press, helping to bring many meaningful voices to life through her editorial work. Deborah had a rare gift for connection. She never met anyone who wasn't a friend. Her infectious laugh could fill a room, and her genuine compassion made everyone feel welcome and valued. She faced life with strength, humor, and grace, inspiring all who knew her. She is survived by her devoted husband of forty years, Michael S. Starewich; her parents, Alfred LeRoy (Kathy) and Darla Samra; her sisters, Lori Bobay (Nick) and Ann Samra; her stepbrother Jeff Felger; her best friend Kathy Vandermotten-Tulley (Chester); her stepchildren, Lisa Vachon, Amy Casey (Mike), and Michael D. Starewich (Stephanie); her grandchildren, Andee Bragg (Jared), Sarah Schacher (Chris), Tyler Gerig (Mikayla), Brooke Skinner (James), Mason Sheridan, Ryan Vachon, Paige Gerig, Evan Vachon, Ian Starewich, and Addyson Starewich; and her great-grandchildren, Joelle Skinner, Nolan Schacher, Maddux Bragg, Margaret Skinner, and Harrison Schacher. She was also deeply loved by her nieces and nephews, who will forever remember her warmth, laughter, and generosity. Services will be held on Sunday, November 9, 2025, at FairHaven Funeral Home, located at 6557 N Clinton St, Fort Wayne, IN 46825. An open house visitation will begin at 1:00 p.m., followed by a memorial service at 2:00 p.m. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to The ALS Association. Make checks payable to "The ALS Association". Deborah's kindness, courage, faith, and love will continue to live on in the hearts of everyone who had the privilege of knowing her.

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Services

Visitation

Calendar
November
9

FairHaven Funeral Home and Cremation Services

6557 N Clinton St, Fort Wayne, IN 46825

1:00 - 2:00 pm

Service

Calendar
November
9

FairHaven Funeral Home and Cremation Services

6557 N Clinton St, Fort Wayne, IN 46825

Starts at 2:00 pm

Deborah Starewich's Guestbook

Visits: 7

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