Obituary: Rebecca Utke

Rebecca "Becky" Jane Utke passed away peacefully on Friday, March 5, after a courageous battle with pancreatic cancer. 

Funeral service was held Friday, March 12 at Prairie Faith Lutheran Church, Glenfield, N.D. Burial was held at Glenfield Cemetery. Rev. Russ Christiansen and Rev. Mike Stevens officiated, with special music by Kimberly Svanoe and Rolf Svanoe. Casket bearers were Ben Vetsch, Josh Vetsch, Drew Utke, Ethan Utke, Bryce Utke, Brooke Topp, Hudson Topp and Sienna Topp. Honorary bearers were all of Becky's nieces and nephews.

Becky was born on Aug. 1, 1950, to parents William "Bill" and Leona Black. She attended college at NDSU, beginning her avid following of the Bison. Becky met the love of her life in the summer of 1967, she and David were married on June 28, 1969. They made their home on the farm near Glenfield. David and Becky enjoyed a full and happy life together for nearly 52 years.

Becky was an active member of the local community. She was involved in a variety of organizations over the years, including Glenfield Lutheran Church, teaching Luther League and serving on the Altar Guild. She had many great memories of her friends in the Glenfield Homemakers Club. In the mid-90's, Becky began working in various positions in the medical field, retiring at the end of 2016 from Sanford Health as a certified medical coder.

Becky's greatest love in life was spending time with her family. She could pull everyone together with a good game or puzzle. She thoroughly enjoyed shopping, decorating, and getting together for the holidays. Christmas was her Super Bowl. Everyone knew Grandma Becky was a perfect gift giver. Her grandchildren were the light of her life. She loved supporting them by attending school and athletic activities, providing baked goods and treats, and making gift baskets for every holiday.

She is survived by her loving husband, David; her children, Janna (Todd) Vetsch, Fargo, N.D.; Joel (Holly) Utke, Glenfield, N.D.; and her eight grandchildren; her mother, Leona Black, New Rockford, N.D.; sisters, Barb Venarchick, Casa Grande, Ariz.; Donetta Black, Casa Grande, Ariz.; brother Kevin (Judy) Black, Grace City, N.D.; and sister-in-law Judy Stevens, Rochester, Minn.; her nieces and nephews, as well as several great nieces and nephews.

Donations can be made in Becky's memory to your local hospice or the Roger Maris Cancer Center.

Arrangements by Evans Funeral Home of Carrington, N.D.