In Loving Memory of Deborah Audrey Santoro
It is with profound sadness that we share the passing of Deborah Audrey Santoro on December 30, 2024. Our hearts ache as we say goodbye to our beloved Dee, who brought so much love, light, and joy into our lives.
Deborah was born on September 7, 1982, in Winnipeg, Manitoba, and spent her early years on a farm in Vita, Manitoba. It was there, surrounded by nature, that her lifelong passion for animals took root. Whether caring for her horses, cats, dogs or the countless other animals she adored, Dee had a gift for connecting with all living beings, winning their hearts as easily as they won hers.
Dee’s journey eventually brought her to Vancouver, British Columbia where she was captivated by the mountains and ocean spray. Her life blossomed in countless ways. In December 2013, she met David and they fell deeply in love. They married in August of 2014 and built a beautiful life together alongside their cherished cats: Nala, Jersey, and Oliver. Dee’s love for her pets was unmatched, and we take comfort in believing she has been reunited with her beloved Nala.
A dedicated lifelong learner, Dee excelled in every academic and professional pursuit she undertook. Her intelligence, drive, and meticulous attention to detail set her apart in every field she worked in. Her countless accomplishments were widely recognized, including a prestigious Leadership in Action Award from Boeing in September 2016, an achievement she was deeply proud of. The award honoured her pivotal role in establishing Boeing’s Yaletown Vancouver office, an extraordinary accomplishment achieved under challenging time constraints. The engraved plaque celebrated her exceptional communication, problem-solving, teamwork, and grace under pressure, some of the many qualities that truly defined Dee.
Dee’s passions extended far and wide. She loved horseback riding, music, and fashion, and her impeccable eye for interior design transformed every space she touched. She had a deep love for travel, with Mexico’s sun-soaked beaches holding a special place in her heart. A talented musician, she played piano and trumpet, and her culinary skills were unparalleled—her Coquille Saint-Jacques was a masterpiece that delighted her family and friends.
But beyond her talents and accomplishments, Dee was a radiant presence who brought love, laughter, and warmth into every heart she touched. Her sharp mind and wicked sense of humor endeared her to all who knew her. She had a way of making everyone feel seen and cherished, and her compassion and kindness were boundless.
As news of her passing spread, friends and family shared countless stories of how Dee enriched their lives. These memories are a testament to the love and light she gave so freely. She never dwelled on life’s small troubles and instead exuded a grace and beauty, inside and out, that left an indelible mark on us all.
Dee, you were stunning, radiant, and irreplaceable. We love you deeply and miss you beyond words.
May we honour her memory by cherishing the moments we shared, holding her close in our hearts, and allowing her light to guide us forward.
Dee was survived by her husband, father, mother, sisters, brother, and nieces and nephews.
Dee's wish was not to have a service at this time.
Let’s remember Dee together by sharing your stories, messages, and pictures here.
In lieu of flowers, you are invited to make a donation to the BC SPCA in honour of Dee's love for animals. Your contribution will help support the well-being of animals in need, something she cared about so dearly. Please click the link below.
February 14th, 2025
I worked with Debbie while she was with Newmark. She hired me and helped me with everything. I'll always remember her as a kind and cheerful person, she had a wall full of cat pictures, she loved them. Dave, I met you once you visited her at the office. My sincere condolences are with you and Debbie's family.
February 13th, 2025
I just heard of Debbie's passing today and I wish to express my sincerest condolences to her loved ones.
Debbie was my colleague at Newmark Knight Frank, a commercial real estate brokerage where she worked in the role as the national operations manager. Dee onboarded me when I joined this firm and made me feel welcome and highly supported from the very first day, and I will always appreciate her for that. RIP Dee.
January 24th, 2025
Dave, I am so sorry to hear of the passing of your beautiful wife, Dee. It is clear she lived an extraordinary life filled with love. Sending my thoughts and prayers to you, your family and friends.
January 20th, 2025
I never had the pleasure of meeting Dee in person - but I have had the benefit of seeing what her impact to Dave's life has (and always will be).
She shone through Dave. I have no doubt that a lot of what Dave is, is because of her.
While it is with an extremely heavy heart that I pass my condolences to Dee, Dave and their beloved family, I thank her for everything that she did and will continue to do for Dave, and for your family, forever in this life.
May you rest in peace Dee.
January 14th, 2025
I had the privilege of knowing Dee through the time I spent with her and Dave at the gym. I have such fond memories of us being the most regular early birds, starting our days together almost every morning. I know those moments meant as much to her as they did to me.
Recently, I learned that Dee and I shared a deep appreciation for the BC SPCA and the incredible work they do for animals. In her honor, I’ve made a donation to support their efforts—a cause close to both of our hearts.
I take comfort in knowing Dee is in a better place now, but her warmth and the moments we shared will always stay with me.
January 14th, 2025
David, I was deeply saddened to hear about the loss of your wife. Please accept my heartfelt condolences during this incredibly difficult time. You and your family are in my thoughts.
January 13th, 2025
David, I am so sorry to hear about your loss. Dee sounded like a remarkable and inspiring woman. I hope that during this difficult time, you find some solace in your memories of her and the joy she brought into your life and many others, and that you now have a guardian angel watching over you. My thoughts and prayers are with you and your family.
January 13th, 2025
David -
Dee clearly had an immense and profound impact on those around her and the broader world in general. I'm grateful for the time you had together and yet my heart aches for you with her passing. I'll be thinking of you, your family, and loved ones during this time.
Chelsea
January 10th, 2025
David - my heart breaks for you and your family. I can see why Dee was so special and I am sure her loss is immense. Prayers for you and the entire family.
Sherri
January 10th, 2025
David,
I am truly sorry to hear about your loss. Please accept my heartfelt condolences. My thoughts and prayers are with you and your family during this time of sorrow.
Roger
January 10th, 2025
David,
I am deeply saddened to hear about your loss. Please accept my condolences. I hope you can find strength and comfort in whatever way possible during this difficult time.
Lukasz
January 10th, 2025
David,
We are very sad to hear the news about Dee. In everything you have told us over the years and reading the tributes here, it is obvious that Dee led an amazing life and was a wonderful person. We are thinking about you and Dee's entire family during this very difficult time. Take care and we will talk soon.
Trevor
January 10th, 2025
Dear David,
Please accept my deepest condolences for the passing of your beloved wife Deborah. My thoughts and prayers are with you and the family at this time of sorrow. I pray that God's comfort and strength will be with you.
With Love.
Lali
January 10th, 2025
Dear David & Family,
Our deepest condolences and we are deeply sorry for your loss. Dee seemed to be a beautiful soul.
January 9th, 2025
Dee you were such a loving person. I Thank you for being in David's life and the both of you having such deep love for each other. We all miss you. But you will be forever in our hearts and memories.
Love George
January 9th, 2025
Fred and Mayumi would like to express our deepest condolences to our dear friend and brother, David Santoro. In this difficult time, we take comfort in knowing that our Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ, will not forsake you. May His blessings be upon you, your family, and Deborah.
January 9th, 2025
We love you Debbie and will miss you very much and are very much filled with grief but know that you are now in a better place. Love Dad and Mom
January 8th, 2025
My dear sweet Debbie! You left a mark on my life that will never go away. I miss seeing your messages pop up on my phone, I miss the photos you’d send me of your cats, I miss our regular catch up talks, I miss you! You told me not to be sad and mourn you so I’m trying to be strong just like you were. I know we’ll meet up in Heaven one day. I can’t wait to hear what you’ve been up to. ❤️🩹
January 8th, 2025
You were loved and you will always be loved. It will not be the same without you. You will be missed. RIP, sis.
January 8th, 2025
That was a beautiful tribute I wish I could have got to know my niece better and to have spent some time getting to know her great attributes that she had
January 8th, 2025
I didn’t know Dee very well but would see her when David would get tattooed by my friend Bao at the conventions. She always had a larger than life smile and such a warm personality. My condolences to David and loved ones but rest assured heaven gained an angel ❤️
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