Olson Burke-Sullivan Funeral And Cremation Center

Obituary Detail

January 30, 1922 April 15, 2012
January 30, 1922 -- April 15, 2012

Arhtur D Debb , Age: 90

Arthur D. Debb, recently of the Moorings of Arlington Heights, ended a full and rich life on April 15th. He was surrounded by his caring family. He was 90 years old. Arthur grew up in Johnstown, PA with his parents and two younger sisters; Evelyn (Steve) Sebastyen and Niva (Val) Devito. He served in the Army in WW II. His company landed on Omaha Beach and went on to liberate Buchenwald concentration camp. What started as a patriotic act to "write a letter to a serviceman overseas", turned into a 64 year love affair. When the war was over, he went to Chicago to marry the girl who wrote all of those letters. In the past several years, as his health deteriorated and his activities became more limited, his spirit remained strong. He never stopped caring about his family and friends, who will miss him. He was the cherished husband of Lydia, proud father of Larry (Miki) and Marsha (Gregg) Werner. Devoted grandfather of Bill and Jackie Debb and Leland Trent Werner; Loving uncle to many nieces and nephews. He was a graduate of Illinois Institute of Technology as a metallurgical engineer. He had an interesting and varied career in the steel industry, both in the U.S. and countries around the world. After retiring, he enjoyed 17 years as a volunteer for the Children's Zoo in the Brookfield Zoo. His great passion was classical music. For over 35 years he shared this love with other members of the Disc and Needle Club. He enjoyed season tickets to both the CSO and the Lyric Opera. He will be missed by his steadfast friends, Jack (the late Cora) Grebner, Art and Norma Koehler and Dick and Mary Reuss. For 54 years they celebrated New Years Eve together. He was a kind, gentle and brilliant man, who will be remembered by those fortunate to have known him. A Celebration of Life luncheon will be held on Sunday, April 22. Donations to; Brookfield Zoo, Children's Zoo, 3300 Golf Road, Brookfield, IL 60513 or Rainbow Hospice, 1550 Bishop Court, Mt. Prospect, IL 60068, would be appreciated.