Deby VAN KAN Obituary

May your hearts soon be filled with wonderful memories of joyful times together as you celebrate a life well lived.

Deby was the very first teacher all three of my children had at St Francis, and the impact she made on them and me has been truly lasting. Her warm and welcoming nature immediately made them feel excited about going to school. She had a remarkable gift for connecting with children, combining her big heart, gentle guidance, and wonderful sense of humour to create a classroom where every child felt valued. Even now between 9 to 15 years later, they often reflect on how fortunate they were to have started their schooling journey with such a fabulous teacher. May she rest in peace.

How grateful we are that Mrs van Kan taught our St Francis children with such a positive and dynamic spirit. I am especially thankful for her kind, caring, supportive and laughter-filled friendship with my mum.

Mrs Van Kan was the first teacher my son Noah had at St Francis Catholic Primary School. She made the transition into school supremely easy for Noah and we will be forever grateful that Noah had such a fantastic teacher for his first year of school. Condolences to her family on her passing.

Deby's curiosity and creativity is inspirational. Working beside you was a gift I shall always remember. The treasures you shared through our work with tamariki, fill my soul and my cupboards and are now shared with my mokopuna. Gifts that will keep giving.

Debys work desk was meticulous, she had a unwavering conviction for mahi, a rye sense of humor, her aroha for her whanau was always clearly evident, the unassuming courageous one in the spaces she stepped in to & whose love language of maanakitanga (hospitable, generous, warm, welcoming, compassionate) embodied, for me, everything that made Deby soooo special. Condolences to her aiga; Manuia lava lou malaga Deby!

Deby, you are an inspiration you were graceful till the end. I will miss you at St Mary's on reading days. I kept waiting for to your return, unaware that you were so unwell. The children too will miss you hugely. A long time friend and teacher, your courage has been unwavering. The love and support from your incredible family is testament to the wonderful person you were. Sending you all my love. B. (St Francis and St Mary's)

Deepest condolences to you Grant and family she was truly an amazing person and teacher.

Sincere condolences to Jorgia and Van Kan family on the sad passing of Deby. May her gentle soul rest in peace.

My condolences. Sending so much love xxx

Our deepest condolences to Grant, Kelly, Jorgia, Tom and Sam and family.

Deepest sympathy to Grant, Kelly, Jorgia, Tom and Sam and extended family. Our hearts are broken in Ireland for your loss.

Deepest condolences Kelly, Simon, Kayla and James. Our thoughts are with you all Nikki, Alysha and Paige

Greatly admired and much loved daughter in law of Edna and Henny, wonderful sister in law of Alison, Norma and Dave, John and Margaret, Mark and Jo, Wayne, Kate and Chris, Craig and Sharon, Rhys and Rosie and her millions of nieces and nephews.

She was an extraordinary woman .

Van Kan whanau, Deby was a wonderful teacher and mentor to all she worked with. Her influence on so many lives is such a legacy. She was so very proud of all of her own children and grandchildren. You are her greatest works. Arohanui to you all. Megan (St Francis School).