Debra Marie Fortier (Westhaver), 58, of Bristol, passed away after a long and courageous battle with cancer, surrounded by her loving family. Debbie was born in Damariscotta on Oct. 2, 1956, to Gordon and Gloria Westhaver.
Debbie was a completely unique person who graduated from Lincoln Academy in 1974. She worked as a Park Ranger at Fort William Henry, then as an armed security officer at the Maine Yankee Nuclear Power Plant for 12 years. While there, she was officer of the year three times, and served on their fire brigade.
She was a kind and gentle soul who loved animals, the earth, and helping others. Among her many self-taught skills were architecture, general contracting, interior design, cross-stitching, and needlepoint. She was happiest in her gardens and kitchen, creating healthy foods for her loved ones… because in her family, food is love.
Debbie was predeceased by her mother, Gloria L. Westhaver; and brother, Albert B. Westhaver.
She is survived by her husband of 27 years, Rick Fortier of Bristol; father, Gordon of Chadbourn, N.C.; sister, Teri Reiling and husband Jim of Sevierville, Tenn.; brother, Brian Westhaver, wife Kelcey, and their family of Nobleboro; beloved niece, Jeannie McFarland of Walpole; cherished dog, Sammy; and numerous family members and countless friends.
A private service will be held later in the summer.
In lieu of flowers, donations in Debbie’s name may be made to the Lincoln County Animal Shelter, PO Box 7, Edgecomb, ME 04556.
Condolences, and messages for the family, may be expressed by visiting www.StrongHancock.com.
Arrangements are under the direction and care of the Strong-Hancock Funeral Home, 612 Main St., Damariscotta.
