Deborah Jean Ashbrook

Deborah Jean Ashbrook, age 64, of Kalamazoo went to be with the Lord on September 1, 2023. She was born May 20, 1959 in National City, California to the late Ray Lewis and Ella Jean (VanGombos) Ashbrook. 

Deb worked at Medallion Management for over 20 years and was the go-to for anyone in need—if she didn’t know how to help, she would figure it out. This extended to her family, as she was always behind the scenes to provide the support needed. She helped to research and organize her brother’s Apollo Mission patches, creating a database he still uses to educate today. She also supported her nephews in the Scouts in countless ways, including elaborate cakes baked each year for the auction with her mother, Jean. She and her Mom were also lovers of music and members of the Sweet Adelines for several years. They even worked together to complete the Great Lakes Swimming Challenge, a 1296-mile goal at the Borgess Fitness Center, after 4 years of hard work. 

Deb enjoyed woodworking and paracord braiding. She could make just about anything if she set her mind to it. She also always loved annual camping trips to Northwinds, a Scout reservation in Baldwin, during the Labor Day weekend.  

Deb was preceded in death by her parents, Ray and Ella Jean Ashbrook and aunts, Bessie Jo Dunn and Beulah Ashbrook. 

She is survived by her brother, David (Annette) Ashbrook; nephews, Timothy and Joseph Ashbrook; uncles, Edward (Nedra) VanGombos, Jerry (Suzanne) VanGombos, and Albert Dunn; as well as many cousins. 

The family will greet friends Thursday, September 7, 2023 from 5-7:00pm at Langeland Family Funeral Homes Burial and Cremation Services, 622 S Burdick St, Kalamazoo, MI 49007. A funeral service will take place Friday, September 8 at 11:00am at the funeral home. Interment will follow in Mt. Olivet Cemetery. 

Contributions in Deb’s memory may be made to The Gideons International. 

To share a memory or leave a condolence for the family visit https://www.langelands.com.