Deborah "Debbie" Hajekerou

It is with profound sadness that we announce the passing of our dearest Deb, a cherished wife, daughter, daughter-in-law, sister-in-law, aunt, niece, cousin and friend who passed away suddenly on April 4, 2023.

Her parents, Sophia and Norman, her older brother Cristo, all her relatives and the extended Greek-Macedonian community were overjoyed to welcome her into the world on August 11th, 1968, in Toronto.

Deb had a passion for food, adventure, travel, dance, music and athleticism. From a young age, she journeyed to many countries to explore their beauty, cycle, ski and hike their mountains and enjoy their culture. She excelled in her chosen sport of golf as a member of both the Weston Golf Club and DC Ranch Golf Club in Arizona, where, with her husband John, she tore up the greens as gracefully as she tore up every dance floor. Her crowning achievement was winning both the match and medal play trophies at Weston in 2016. Her friends in the golfing community describe her as “the friendliest competitor you would ever meet.”

Deb found her calling in the service of others. Her passion for healthy living translated into a fulfilling career teaching fitness and providing caregiving to help improve the lives of her clients. She combined her talents and selflessness through her participation in several volunteer endeavours at both the golf club and through fundraising activities, such as a 170-kilometre bike ride to help conquer multiple sclerosis. Deb was a devoted and loving wife to John Cocomile for 18 years. She was a dedicated and loyal friend who always made time for an intimate conversation, a power walk, a fun night out and if you were lucky, a gourmet meal which she could whip up in no time. In recent years, she was a compassionate and attentive caregiver and companion to both her parents and her aunt Millie. Debbie is now reunited with her treasured brother Chris, who predeceased her in 1994.

Throughout her life, without exception, Deb was adored by all those who were fortunate enough to know her, thanks to her kind, caring nature, her calm disposition, her sunny friendliness, her wit and charm. She always had time for her friends and family; they were her priorities. Our world was brighter with Debbie in it and although we will miss her greatly, her light will remain in our hearts forever.

Memories from Arizona


Family and friends may pay their respects, honour and remember our beloved Debbie at the Weston Chapel of the Ward Funeral Home for a Visitation, Memorial Service and Luncheon on Saturday, April 15th, 2023, from 11:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. (2035 Weston Road, Toronto, M9N 1X7).

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made in Deborah Hajekerou’s name to the: St. Joseph’s Health Care Foundation - Mental Health .
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The family has provided the opportunity to view a Live Stream of the Funeral Service from the comfort of your own home. We are pleased to provide this complimentary service for those watching remotely. Please be aware this is not a professionally edited video and is happening in real time. You may experience network (internet) failures and/or local signal issues. A high definition recording of the funeral service becomes available after the service is completed. This is typically available within the same day. The recorded service remains on the website.
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