Deborah Ann Ruel

Deborah Ann Ruel
1964-2025
Deborah Ann (Lapite) Ruel, 61, loving wife of 34 years to Donald J. Ruel, passed away peacefully at her home in Chicopee on Tuesday, July 1, 2025 with her loving family by her side.
Deborah was born in Holyoke, MA, on May 23, 1964, a daughter of Dore J. and May (Vaillette) Lapite. She was raised and educated in Chicopee and was a graduate of Chicopee Comprehensive High School. She later received her associates degree from Holyoke Community College and her paralegal certificate from Elms College.
Deborah was currently the Office Manager for her husband’s business, Donald J. Ruel Electric, Inc. in Chicopee and was also employed at Ottani Tree Service and Landscaping of Longmeadow and Menck Windows, formerly of Chicopee.
Deborah is fondly remembered as a lunch lady at St. Joan of Arc-St. George School in Chicopee where her children attended. She captured hearts with her memorable laugh and warm smile, and shared her love and kindness unconditionally with all who were fortunate enough to meet her. She also never hesitated to share her passion of designer handbags.
Deborah was a longtime parishioner of St. Rose de Lima Church in Chicopee.
Deborah leaves her loving husband Donald, of Chicopee and children, Kristina Joy and her husband, Sean of Brimfield, and Stephen Ruel of Chicopee; brothers Ray Lapite of Granby and Paul Lapite and his wife Carina of Enfield, CT; her sister Ann Aubuchon of Chicopee; and numerous nieces, nephews, and cousins.
In addition to her parents, she was also predeceased by her brother, Joseph Lapite.
Family and friends are invited to gather on Saturday, July 12, for a period of visitation from 9:30 AM – 11 AM, at Brunelle Funeral Home, 811 Chicopee St., Chicopee, followed by a procession to St. Rose de Lima Cemetery, 49 Olsen St., Chicopee, for her committal prayers and burial.
In lieu of flowers, donations in Deborah’s name may be made to the Leukemia & Lymphoma Society, Donor Services, P.O. Box 22324, New York, NY 10087. For online condolences and more information please visit www.brunellefuneralhome.com .