In Loving Memory of
Debra Anne Bonnett
April 14, 1954 – January 5, 2026 

It is with profound sadness and deep love that we announce the passing of Debra (Debbie) Anne Bonnett on Monday, January 5, 2026, at the age of 71. Debbie passed peacefully at the Red Deer Regional Hospital with her beloved son by her side. 

Debbie will be forever remembered and deeply loved by her son, Brayden Bonnett (Jennifer); her cherished grandchildren, Bentley, Oaklen, and Grace; her sister Judy (Darrell) Lueers of Rocky Mountain House; her brother David (Barb) Bonnett of Ponoka; her sister Shirley Armitage of Red Deer; and her brother Paul (Dee-Ann) Bonnett of Ponoka. She will also be fondly remembered by her many nieces and nephews, extended family members, and a wide circle of dear friends whose lives she touched with her vibrant spirit and generous heart. 

Debbie was predeceased by her parents, Melvin Bonnett and Elizabeth (Betty) Pugh Bonnett; her siblings Donald and Dawne; and her brother-in-law, William Armitage. 

Born and raised on a farm north of Ponoka, Alberta, Debbie developed a strong work ethic and a love for life early on. She was an avid athlete in high school, playing volleyball, basketball, and badminton on senior teams. After graduating from Ponoka Composite High School in 1972, she moved to Edmonton to work for Alberta Government Telephones. She later returned to Central Alberta to work with the Wetaskiwin Department of Agriculture. 

In 1976, Debbie began her long and accomplished career with the City of Red Deer, working in various departments including building inspections, licensing, and development. Her passion for growth and learning led her to further her education, earning certifications in Applied Land Use Planning, Local Municipal Government, Alberta Building Codes from the University of Alberta, and Economic Development from the University of Waterloo. She also obtained her Real Estate License. 

In 1995, Debbie moved to the County of Red Deer, where she advanced to the position of Economic Development Manager, a role she held until 2011. She later worked with Nova Chemicals, followed by the City of Lacombe, where she rose to Planning and Development Manager until 2020. Never one to stop learning, Debbie earned her certificate in Accident and Sickness Insurance in 2023 and worked as an independent insurance representative until December 2025. In January of 2024 she took on her final role with ISL Engineering and Land Services as their Planning and Development Officer. 

Debbie took pride in every role she held. She was endlessly curious, courageous in her pursuits, and driven by determination. Her entrepreneurial spirit and dedication inspired all who knew her. 

Above all else, Debbie’s greatest joy was her grandchildren. She rarely missed Bentley’s hockey games, delighted in playing games and building blocks with little Oaklen and her little Grace, (whom she lovingly referred to as her little dollie). Debbie cherished every moment watching Oilers games with her son and grandchildren. She was also the proudest supporter of her nieces and nephews, always cheering them on at their sporting events. 

Debbie enjoyed golfing, downhill skiing, curling, reading, and learning new things. She also had a deep love for travel, exploring destinations across the United States and Mexico. 

A Celebration of Life will be held on Saturday, June 6, 2026th, at 1:00 p.m. at the Shadynook Community Centre (28348 Township Road 380, Red Deer County). Camping is available. All who knew and loved Debbie are welcome to attend, share stories, laughter, and memories as we honour her remarkable life. 

The family extends heartfelt gratitude to the staff at Red Deer Regional Hospital and Red Deer Emergency Services for their compassionate care during Debbie’s final weeks. 

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to:
• Canadian Cancer Foundation
• Lupus Canada 

Debbie’s love, laughter, and spirit will live on in our hearts forever. 

• Date : 2026-01-05
• Location : Red Deer Funeral Home