In Memory – Debbie (Deborah) van Dam

We extend our heartfelt sympathy to the family of Debbie van Dam, a 30-year RIWPS member and volunteer who died in October. Debbie was known at RIWPS for undertaking a large variety of roles. Her service on the board included a number of different terms beginning shortly after she joined in 1994 and extending through 2009. Very notable, was her term as a Vice President in 2006 when RIWPS was struggling financially. Her leadership and determination led to a major fundraising event which allowed us to remain solvent. She dedicated her time to our publications, serving as the Chair of Publications and later as a member of the WildfloraRI Editorial Advisory Board. She occasionally wrote brief articles and cultivation notes.

Debbie is remembered for generously sharing her interest and knowledge in gardening and native plants. An active member of Seed Starters East, she also assisted at the annual June plant sale, including the effort to make informational plant signs for each species. Besides her own garden which she tended with care, Debbie was a part of a project to create of a native plant garden at Aldrich House, the home of the RI Historical Society, an organization to which she also belonged.  Additionally, for over ten years, Debbie was involved in the award-winning native plant exhibit at the RI Spring and Garden Flower Show.

We are indebted to Debbie for her friendship, her quiet leadership and her wide-ranging contributions. She touched the lives of so many.