Obituary: Debbie Gallegos Schouten

Debbie Gallegos Schouten 1957 ~ 2005 Debbie Marie was born July 15, 1957 in Salt Lake City, UT to Moises and Flora (Herrera) Gallegos. Debbie passed peacefully in the presence of her two loving sons and husband as well as her many close family members on December 19, 2005 in her home. Debbie's courageous spirit held strong through seven years of tribulation with breast cancer. The strength she demonstrated was surpassed only by her love and appreciation for all that life offers. Those around her, especially her family, grew tremendously from the attitude that Debbie demonstrated. She is truly an inspiration. Her passion for life has been transmittable to all who have had the privilege of being near to her. Debbie's exuberance and relentless will to live was evident to anyone with whom she had contact. Her immense love was personified in the bonds she shared with her husband of 29 years, Ben and her two sons Lance and Chad. All three of whom she regards as the loves of her life. Debbie attended Stansbury elementary school, West Lake Junior High, and went on to attend Granger High. Debbie grew up as a self-proclaimed tomboy and developed a love for sports and the outdoors. Debbie particularly loved softball and excelled greatly at racquetball. She continued to play softball and take long bike rides throughout her bought with cancer. Debbie also grew up in an era defined by rock and roll. And that she took advantage of. She always has, and always will be a music lover. Her car stereo blasted; the volume remained loudly cranked until her last days. Rock on! In her adulthood, Debbie could rarely be found at home on summer weekends. She spent the majority of that time high in the Rocky Mountains of Utah with her luxurious trailer. She cherished that trailer nearly as much as the gorgeous natural surroundings that she shared with her closest family members and friends. Additionally, Debbie took pleasure in her mountainous environment during all seasons. Whether it was fall, winter, or spring she could be found basking in the comfort of the cabin in Timberlakes with her sister and other family members of the like. There she found great pleasure in taking long walks with her sister, dogs, and anyone else willing to stroll along. Travel was among other of life's pleasures where Debbie found solace, especially during her illness. If not in the mountains, Debbie could be found on the shores of Hawaii. Her most recent trip with her family was as recent as October 2005. Debbie not only traveled the world but also voyaged through the hearts of a tremendous number of people with whom she came in contact. The students and faculty of Jordan Hills Elementary were particularly touched by her benevolent natured persona. She was employed there for 20 years as lunch manager up until her passing. The work Debbie performed there reached much deeper than lovingly serving meals to hungry young students. She touched each student and faculty member individually. Debbie's entire family would like to extend a very sincere thank you to the Jordan School District for their love and support during Debbie's illness as well as her healthy time spent with staff and student body alike. She also put in part time work at Cottonwood Hospital Food Service where many friendships also blossomed. The family's deepest gratitude is also extended to Dr. Litton and his entire staff at the Utah Cancer Specialists. These very special people with extraordinary jobs not only provided necessary care for an ill woman, but a comfortable environment where some of Debbie's many friendships were bonded. The love and care that Debbie received there is irreciprocal and unsurpassed. The family's appreciation is immeasurable. On Debbie's behalf, the family would also like to extend thanks to IHC, including at no secondary degree, IHC Hospice. Their compassionate work will not be forgotten. Their sincere concern for Debbie's well being during her last days demonstrated the most loving and empathetic environment any human could possibly provide. Thank you. Debbie is survived by: her loving husband, Ben. Her two sons Lance (Corin, the daughter she never had) and Chad. Her beloved dog, Lady. Her special sister and best friend, Janet (Dave) Puttuck. Brothers: Randy (Linda B), Robert (Linda J), Donald, Junie, Tom and Russell Gallegos. nieces and nephews: Dustin, Stephanie, Lindsay, Brian, Amy, James, Chris, Charmaine (Dom). Grand nephews and Nieces: Dominic, Jonathan, Maxwell and Jayden. The entire Schouten and Taylor families. Preceded in death by her mother Flora and father Moises. A special friend and mentor Danny Smith. We love you Mom! We'll miss you Debbie! We'll see you later, the love of my life! Donations to the Susan G. Komen Breast Cancer Foundation or The Huntsman Cancer Institute in Debbies name will be greatly appreciated and serve in further research in the hunt for a cure. A funeral mass will be celebrated Friday at 11:00 a.m. at St. Martin de Porres Catholic Church, 4914 South 2200 West. A vigil service will be held Thursday at 7:30 p.m. at Neil O'Donnell and Sons Mortuary, 372 East 100 South, where friends may call from 6:00 - 9:00 p.m. Committal, Mt. Calvary Catholic Cemetery, 4th Avenue and T Street.