Obituary of Colleen A Deats

DEATS, Colleen A. Age 53 of Elmira, NY went home to be with her Savior on Thursday, April 17, 2014. She was expected to be born at Christmas, but came early on Thanksgiving, November 24, 1960, daughter of Bert and Loretta (Makowiec) Deats. Colleen was predeceased by her father Bert Deats and many aunts, uncles and cousins. She is survived by her mother Loretta Deats; sisters Yvonne (David) Sadler, Cindy Deats and Sherry (Gary Reis) Deats; brother Bert Deats II along with 8 nieces and nephews. Colleen was our "baby" sister, nicknamed "Beanie". When she was young, she took ballet lessons and was a member of the singing group Celebrate Life. She enjoyed Saturday afternoon shopping with her mom, reading and animals; loved collecting photos of family and friends, brightly colored necklaces, bracelets, rings and stuffed animals. She was very feisty with a deep laugh and a twinkle in her eyes that made you wonder what she was thinking. In 1979 she received a kidney transplant that extended her life. Her family appreciates all the care and love she received from the staff at the Elmira Psychiatric Center. Family and friends are invited to visit Walter J. Kent Funeral Home, 858 Lake St. at Washington Ave., Elmira on Wednesday, April 23rd from 4 to 6 pm. Her funeral and committal service will follow at 6 pm. Rev. Scott Wolfe will officiate. Interment will take place in Forest Lawn Memorial Park at the convenience of the family. In lieu of flowers, those wishing may remember Colleen through donations to the National Kidney Foundation, 30 E. 33rd St., New York, NY 10016 and to write a letter to Gov. Cuomo and State Legislators in support of keeping the Elmira Psychiatric Center open.