Deborah Tischler

Deborah Ann Poetzl Tischler, a woman whose vibrant faith and gentle spirit touched countless lives, passed away peacefully in Albuquerque, New Mexico on October 26, 2025. She was 85. Deborah was born August 21, 1940, in Chicago, Illinois to Raymond Poeztl and Margery Coffey Poetzl.

She graduated from Highland High School in Albuquerque and furthered her education at the University of New Mexico. On December 19, 1970, she married the love of her life, Howard Mark Tischler, with whom she shared a deep and abiding bond. She was a devoted mother to her two daughters, The Reverened Dr. Chloe Chavez (Ruben Chavez) and Ms. Faith Lynn Cleary. She also held a special place in her heart for her niece, Mimi Stevens Keller. Deborah was preceded in death by her beloved sister, Susan Parks Stevens.

Throughout her life, Deborah was actively involved in numerous volunteer organizations, reflecting her commitment to making a positive impact on the world around her. She generously dedicated her time and energy to the Detroit Symphony League, where she served as its president, and to the Michigan Orchestra Volunteer Association, sharing her love for the arts.

Deborah was a woman of deep faith and a compassionate spirit, whose life was marked by service and a dedication to nurturing the spiritual well- being of others. She served several ministries of the Episcopal Church including Faith Alive and Daughters of the King, where she held the elected roles of provincial president and national triennial chairperson. She served as both Senior and Junior Wardens of Christ Church Episcopal, Grosse Point, Michigan.

As a founding member of Hope in the Desert Episcopal Church in Albuquerque, Deborah poured her heart into her spiritual family. She served on the Vestry, shared her wisdom as a lay minister, speaker, bible teacher and was a faculty member of Hope's Healing School for Prayer. Her passion for spiritual growth led her to create and host the podcast, "Growing in God's Design for you," in which she shared her insights and encouragement with a wider audience.

Furthering her ability to guide others, Deborah trained with the Columbiere Jesuit Spirituality Center in Michigan, allowing her to offer profound guidance and support to those seeking a deeper understanding of their faith and themselves. Known for the extroverted and friendly nature, Deborah effortlessly connected with people, leaving a lasting impression of warmth and care.

A Viewing and Funeral Service will be held on Friday, October 31, 2025, at Hope in the Desert Episcopal Church, 8700 Alameda, NE, Albuquerque, New Mexico, at 10:00 am.  She will be laid to rest at a Memorial Service at Christ Church Grosse Point. In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made to Church Unbound, a Chapel of the Cathedral of St. John or to Hope in the Desert Episcopal Church.

Deborah's legacy of faith, service and heartfelt connection will continue to inspire all who knew her. Her radiant spirit and unwavering devotion will be deeply missed.