Deborah J. McKane

Lansing, NY

Deborah J. McKane, 58 of Lansing, passed away peacefully at home on September 13, 2017, surrounded by her loving family.

Born September 20, 1958 in Ashland, NY, Debbie was a daughter of the late Earl C. Partridge and Marian Zifchock Partridge, who survives her.  Debbie was very ambitious and began working in McDonalds during high school to buy her trusty old car.  After graduation, she worked at Cornell University for many years while raising four children.  Debbie returned to college, earning her Bachelor’s degree in Sociology, all while working two jobs.  She later operated a dog boarding & grooming shop, was a tax preparer and a real estate agent, and ultimately retired as a Case Supervisor with Tompkins County.  From pee-wee to high school, in or out of state, throughout the years Debbie attended as many of her kid’s and grandkid’s sporting events as she could.  Debbie was a passionate animal lover her entire life.  She rescued many dogs, cats and horses and fostered countless litters of kittens.  Dogs were her preferred companions, sometimes more than people. 

Debbie was a devoted wife, mother and grandmother and her presence will surely be missed.

In addition to her mother, Marian Partridge, Debbie is survived by her husband, Mark McKane; children, Bryan Zimmerman (Donetta), Crystie Zimmerman, Brandy Hill (Richard), Lori McKane, John David “JD” McKane; her many grandchildren; sister, Cherie Sullivan (Matthew); nieces Erin Emerson and Shannon Flynn; a large extended family; and her faithful canine companions, Buddy & Dewey.

For those who wish, in lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be directed to either Cortland Community SPCA, 879 McLean Rd., Cortland, NY 13045 or Hospicare, 172 E. King Rd., Ithaca, NY 14850.

Family will be present to receive friends from 4-7 pm, Monday, September 18th, at Lansing Funeral Home, 32 Auburn Rd., Lansing, NY.