Debra J. Malich

Debra J. Malich, 58, of Stevensville, passed away Tuesday, February 7th surrounded by family and friends at the Hanson Hospice House in Stevensville, MI. Debra was born to Richard and Elizabeth (Loya) Steele, on May 25, 1958, in Saratoga Springs, New York. She graduated from Saratoga Springs High School in 1976, and earned her LPN nursing license from BOCES. In the same year she moved to Stevensville, MI where she met her husband-to-be. In August 5, 1978 she married her soul-mate Rick Malich. She loved helping others at all times, and spent many years in the nursing field providing love and support to those needing her. She was a Hospice Nurse for 10 years, the Program Director at Harbor House, and most recently a highly loved team member at Riverwood Center in Benton Harbor, MI. Debra loved spending time with her family & friends. Her love for animals generated a household of dachshunds and one labrador retriever. She was a Girl Scout leader (Troop 531) where she formed friendships that lasted a lifetime. In her free time she could be found outside working in her pond, or in her craft room making a special treasure for someone she loved. The true sparkle in her eyes came when she became a GMa and could spend her time spoiling her three grandchildren. Debra is survived by her husband Rick Malich; mother Elizabeth (Titus) Flowers; sister Dawn (Jerry) Bischoff ; children: Chris (Deborah) Malich, Lindsey (Vance) Booza; niece Megan (Jason) Brocato; three grandchildren: Nathan Malich, Allison & Jaxson Booza; three great-nephews Aidan, Gavin & Grayson; her beloved fur babies Izzy, Millie & Gracie; & many more friends and family who will miss her dearly. She was preceded in death by her dad, Richard Steele & brother in-law Scott Walters. Celebration of Life Service will take place on Sunday, February 12th at 5:00pm at Starks & Menchinger Chapel & Cremation Services, 2650 Niles Rd., St. Joseph with Ron Frank officiating. Friends may visit with the family before services from 2:00 PM until 5:00 PM. Memorial contributions may be made to Hospice at Home, or the Humane Society of Southwest Michigan. Those wishing to leave an online condolence may do so at www.starks-menchinger.com. Rest in Peace GMa.