Debra S. Grodner

January 26, 2020

Debra VanderMeer was born in Muskegon, Michigan on November 6,1952. At the age of 9 with her younger brother, Gary, the family moved to La Habra, California following their pastor’s new position as the assistant to the late Robert Schuller Sr. She attended Fullerton Jr. College, as well as school for dental hygienist. She continued to pursue various careers as she intuitively searched for deeper meaning and purpose. In November 1973, she was introduced to the Unification Church, where she had the opportunity to get to know Father and Mother Moon personally. Within the church, she worked in sales selling varied artistic pieces, facilitated educational workshops and even pioneered Alaska opening the minds and hearts to the church. Debby was Blessed by True Parents to her wonderful husband, Bruce Grodner, on July 1st 1982 in the Holy Marriage Blessing at Madison Square Garden. Bruce was appointed as District Pastor of the Family Federation of New York, where Debby was able to serve as First Lady. After 20 years of marriage, they were gifted with a beautiful child they named Preston Alexander. As Director of Camp Sunrise in Harriman State Park, NY for 15 years, Debby had the privilege of hosting thousands of children and families from 2000 – 2015. Her love of nature and people made a perfect combination to permit the diverse experiences had at the camp, both exceptional and memorable. Being challenged by health issues for several years, Debby was finally able to welcome good health under the care and support of Dr. Tony and Karen Sayegh. For the last 5 years, she has worked at their Thrive Health and Wellness Center in White Plains, NY, as their assistant and patient concierge, where she witnessed the remarkable recovery of so many people. Debby, a great cook, accomplished artist, having an aptitude for music…was also a most talented and accomplished writer. After many dedicated years to this task, she completed 7 volumes of her book, “Jules of Andelain.” Debby, a person who was filled with only selfless thoughts…who loved her family and was so proud of the many accomplishments of her son…lived and loved life to its fullest. “People will forget what you said, people will forget what you did, but people will never forget how you, Debby, made us feel.” (Based on the quote by Maya Angelou)