Deborah Ann Jacobson Wasden, 73, passed away peacefully at home in the quiet morning hours on Saturday, October 15, 2022, in Boise, Idaho.
She was born January 9, 1949, in Calgary, Alberta, Canada, to Alfred Thurl, Sr., and Virginia Lorraine LaCom Jacobson. She was educated in the public schools of Calgary and Tulsa, Oklahoma. During her undergraduate studies, she spent a semester in Grenoble, France and later graduated from Brigham Young University with a degree in English. On September 4, 1969, she married John R Wasden in the Idaho Falls, Idaho, LDS Temple. They lived in Salt Lake City, UT; Idaho Falls; and Kirkland, WA, for short periods before settling in Boise in 1978.
She enjoyed a happy childhood highlighted by treasured experiences, such as skating at the local ice rink after school in Calgary, enjoying her mother’s homemade meringues as they melted in her mouth, and family summer road trips to visit dear relatives in Utah and California. In California, her “Pop Pop” would serve her, her sister, and their cousins “cokes, cookies, and caramels,” which became a favorite childhood mantra.
While Deborah was a toddler, her mother called her a “blithe spirit” and her father nicknamed her “sunshine girl”. Throughout her life, Deborah’s caring and cheerful disposition brought sunshine into countless lives. She was a dedicated, thoughtful, and loving friend, often investing time and resources into supporting those within her circle of influence. She especially loved young people and took joy in creating unique bridal and baby showers for young women in her church community where no detail was overlooked.
Her greatest focus and joy in life was her family. Together with her husband, they actively channeled their children’s energy into worthwhile pursuits across sports, dance, student government, and academics.
She created a warm and loving home environment enjoyed by both her family and friends. Rainy days became “chocolate chip cookie days.” She was a trusted confidant and constant source of love, wisdom, and encouragement. Once the children left home, she organized family gatherings, including annual retreats for her daughter and daughters-in-law, aptly named W.O.W. weekends (Women of Wasden).
Deborah had a gift for creating inviting yet refined spaces. She loved to design and decorate, with one of her kitchen remodels featured in print publications. In addition, she was a life-long learner, fierce board-game competitor, voracious reader, and talented teacher.
She is survived by John, her loving husband of 53 years, and their five children: John “Jake” Jacobson Wasden (Michelle), Spanish Fork, UT; Catherine Omran (Tamer), Henderson, NV; Michael J. Wasden (Norah), Pennington, NJ; Tyler J. Wasden, Boise, ID; Andrew Scott Wasden (Alyssa), Boise, ID; as well as a sister, brother, eight grandchildren, and one great grandchild.
The family extends thanks to many relatives, friends, and St. Luke’s hospice who brought joy and comfort to Deborah after her ovarian cancer diagnosis.
Deborah was laid to rest at Dry Creek Cemetery in Boise on October 19, 2022.
We love you Didi, and thank you for keeping the lights on for us!
Arrangements are under the direction of Bowman Funeral Parlor of Garden City.
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