HARTMANN, Deborah (Rigsby)

1954-2025

It is with deep sadness that the family of Mrs. Deborah Jane Hartmann of Didsbury, Alberta, announces her passing on Friday, October 10, 2025, at the age of 71 years. Debbie was born on January 2, 1954, to Neil and Isabelle Rigsby, and was Didsbury’s New Year’s baby that year. Her mom often recalled the snowy night before her birth and how quickly Debbie arrived once they reached the hospital—setting the tone for a life lived with energy and heart. She followed her dad and brother everywhere from the time she was nine months old, a daddy’s girl and a bit of a tomboy from the start. On October 15, 1971, Debbie married the love of her life, Larry Hartmann, and together they built a beautiful life grounded in family, faith, and laughter. She was a devoted wife, mom, nan, and nana great who worked hard and cared deeply for others. Debbie will be lovingly remembered by her husband Larry; children Brian (Wanitta), Stuart, and Leah (Kevin); grandchildren Shauni (Colby), Dyllan, Carlin, and Ryder (Ian); and great-grandchildren Levi and Laney. She is also survived by her mother Isabelle, sisters Theresa (Marvin) and Dianne (Brian), and many nieces, nephews, extended family, and friends. She was predeceased by her father Neil, brother Bill, and numerous aunts, uncles, and cousins. Debbie’s hands were rarely still—she found joy in crocheting intricate doilies, knitting for all the new babies, and spending time with those she loved most. She cherished holidays with her sister Theresa and their spouses, and weekly lunch dates with Dianne and their spouses, where laughter and stories were always on the menu. She loved her house full of her adult children and grandchildren, the more the merrier. She also had a strong Christian faith, often participating in women’s ministry and gatherings that nurtured her spirit.

Her favourite time of year was Christmas, when her kitchen filled with the smell of baking and the happy chaos of little hands decorating sugar cookies—no matter how many fingers ended up in the dough, she was still smiling. In her younger years, Debbie loved being on the back of Larry’s motorbike—wind in her hair, smile on her face, and her trusty heated vest keeping her just the right temperature for adventure. The family would like to extend their heartfelt thanks to Dr. Bruner and all the staff of Units 1 and 2 for their compassionate care and attention over the past nine months. Her family finds comfort in knowing she is now at peace, reunited with her dad and brother, and held in the arms of her Lord. Forever wouldn’t have been long enough to love you on earth Nan.

Condolences, memories and photos may be shared and viewed at www.heartlandfuneralservices.com. Arrangements in care of Heartland Funeral Services Didsbury, 1413 – 21 Avenue, Didsbury, Alberta 403.335.4773.

• Date : 2025-10-26
• Location : (Didsbury) LOCALLY OWNED AND OPERATED (Red Deer/Blackfalds/Eckville) www.ParklandFuneralHome.com & (Innisfail/Olds/Didsbury/Sundre) www.HeartlandFuneralServices.com