Deborah Cruson

It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of Deborah Cruson, who left us on July 11, 2026, at the age of 79. Born on February 13, 1947, in Ontario, Oregon, Deborah, affectionately known as Debbie, was a vibrant soul whose life was a testament to the joy of culinary arts, the love of family, and the spirit of adventure. Debbie was the cherished daughter of Elmer and Mona Cruson, who predeceased her. She is survived by her devoted husband, Bob Otis, and her beloved siblings, Dian Rase, Dale Cruson, and Donna Garner. Her life was further enriched by her close friendships with Amber, Deb, and Linda, who were like family to her. A graduate of Ontario High School in 1965, Debbie's journey through life was marked by her passion for cooking and fine dining. Her career took her to various locales across the Midwest, Europe, and California, where she worked in the vacation and tourism industry as a cook and bookkeeper. The pinnacle of her professional life was spent in Hawaii, on the enchanting island of Maui. There, she served as the main chef for a company that organized large catamaran trips to Lanai, where she was celebrated for her magnificent meals that delighted countless travelers. Debbie was not only a master in the kitchen but also a woman of many talents and interests. She enjoyed watching cooking shows and Hallmark channel movies, and she found great pleasure in solving jigsaw puzzles and playing board games. Her independence and self-sufficiency were hallmarks of her character, as was her knack for bargaining and her practical, innovative approach to household management. Family and friends will remember Debbie for her ability to transform any recipe into something extraordinary, and her unwavering love and support. In the words of her family, "Debbie never met a recipe she couldn't change for the better." In honor of Debbie's life and her generous spirit, the family asks that donations be made to a charity of your choice. Debbie will be profoundly missed by all who knew her, but her legacy will live on in the hearts and kitchens of those who carry forward her love for cooking and her zest for life.