Becky Sietsema
Jun 17th 1992 - Nov 1st 2009
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Glenna
November 15th 2009
Paulie and Lori,
Although I never had the privlage of meeting Becky, after reading her lifestory it is evient that she had her mother's focus and determination, and her father's love for adventure and fun. An amazing combination.
Becky may have left this earth too soon....but her memory lives on with you and through you.
Love you,
Glenna
Corenne Ching
November 11th 2009
I was so sorry to hear of Becky's passing. I had the opportunity to see her last summer at the cottage on the lake. She was in such good spirits, I was impressed by her courage with all she had been through.
I didn't know her well, but first met her while visiting with Paul's cousin Sherri many years ago. Becky was just a little girl then and both she and her sister Elsie were fun to be around. They had made refrigerator magnets out of bottle caps and I still have this Red Bonnet on the side of my fridge and each time I look at it I think of that visit at the Sietsema family home. May God Bless you all in this time of great sadness.
Nicole Carney
November 8th 2009
I remember Prom with Becky. Elsie was so worried about her, and always wanted to keep an eye on her and really only went because Becky had asked her too. Those two were so close even if they didn't always get along, they would be good again 5 minutes later. She was such a nice person and I always saw her smiling. You wanted to be around her because she had such a bright personality and she was so nice to everyone. It's a horrible loss, everyone wanted her to pull through. She is definetly missed by family, friends and even those who didn't know her well. My thoughts and prayers go out to the family and all others who are suffering. R.I.P. Becky
Kelly Rhoades
November 7th 2009
Dear Paul and Lori:
Seems like yesterday (we were just a little older than Becky) when we were having way too much fun at CMU. We all crashed in my tiny college apartment, eating pizza, cranking out the tunes on my turn table, playing ALBUMS and staying up half the night. Life was simpler then. No responsibilities... just lots of fun with great friends.
I haven't see you guys in awhile. I did not know Elsie and Becky at all -- just through stories that Kevin and Thora have shared over the years. I do feel like I got to know Becky a little better by reading the memories and stories on this website. Lori, I see your reflection in her pretty face. She was so lovely.
I could not attend the funeral, so please know I am thinking of your family as you enter into life without Becky's physical presence. She is always with you. After Dale died, I found comfort in connection with the blue heron -- it has become an earthly image of our father-daughter bond. I watch sunsets, and I see the heron fly by and I talk to him, still. I hope that all of you can find a lasting connection that represents the very soul of your precious Becky. I am so sad that you have had to endure this loss.
I will continue to hold hope for all of you, as you begin to find your way toward healing.
I love you guys,
Kelly Rhoades
Julie(Murphy) Maynard
November 6th 2009
We bring into our lives, lights that are our children.
They shine so ever brightly as they grow. Their exploits
and laughter are left in our memories like a picture is exposed on film. Your Becky's light was dimmed from view much too soon. But, it's glow and warmth, those memories, will stay with all who knew her. They are her gift.
My thoughts and prayers go out to you.
Julie
Ellen Achterhof
November 5th 2009
Lori and family,
Prayers and thoughts for all of you. Trusting in the belief of only the good die young and there is Eternal Life.
May God grant you peace.
Ellen
Jake Lubbers
November 5th 2009
When I think of Becky, I think of her in Intermediate School, walking down the hall in a green Leaping Lizards hoodie with her glasses and gorgeous hair. That's how I'll always remember her. Beautiful.
In Middle School I sat by her in Mrs. Hager's class. I remember on one day that we were talking about relationships and agreed that we didn't like the idea of calling somebody our boy/girlfriend, that it was too much of a title.
I will greatly miss Becky,and though we grew apart over the years, I'll never forget her, or her smile.
May God be with her family and friends.
Mary Upman
November 5th 2009
I remember going up to the Sietsema cabin one summer with the family where Becky & I started talking and then eventually started hanging out more & more. We lost alot of our contact when I went to highschool and she was still in middle school. I will never forget the joy in her face walking through the halls of RPHS, how she would smile through her struggles & go above and beyond to make someone elses' day amazing!
You will be missed & much love goes out to you
Alex Evans
November 5th 2009
I didn't know Becky, if fact I can't say I have ever talked to her. I just remember sitting behind her everyday in band class and think of how pretty she was. I admired her and her cool, calm, relaxed attitude. I had no idea about her cancer until they announced at school she had passed away. It really made me reexamine my life.
Danielle Stewart
November 5th 2009
Becky and I became really good friends in middle school, and we were best friends through freshman and some of sophmore year. I hate that I wasn't there more, I guess I never really thought that it would ever get this bad. I haven't even seen Becky in at least a year, but I'm still going to miss her, just like everyone else will.
She was incredible.
Tara Dunlap
November 5th 2009
I've known Becky for a long time. Ever since like 5th grade i believe. We had band together and she was such a great friend and a nice person. We have so many amazing memories together and i miss her so much. i will never forget our laughs and cries and how we would talk about our boy trouble. she was always there for me and i could never ask for a better friend. i love you becky and i know your in a better place now. im not going to say good-bye to you because i will be seeing you again. just promise to save a place for me next to you
love always T
Julie (Conklin) Moyer
November 5th 2009
Lori, I'm so sorry to hear of your daughters passing. I remember when she was born when we both worked at Mercy Hospital. I wasn't aware that she was friends with my son, Jimmy until this afternoon when I went on line and read her life story. Jimmy had told me of his friend who was sick a couple years ago. I wanted you to know that I prayed for her then and I'm praying for you and your family now during this difficult time.
Julie (Conklin) Moyer and Jimmy Conklin
sebastian hoffman
November 5th 2009
well i've known becky since the 1st grade and she was always a fun person to be around...i started hanging out with her more in middle school and i really admired her and my step sister teased me because she was on my mind alot and i was always really excited to be able to hang out with her...she was honestly one of the most beautiful girls i have ever met and i told her that every time i saw her and although she didnt beleive me, i meant every word from the bottom of my heart. when she came back to school last year i was really glad to see her every day and i sat with her at lunch and hung out with her as much as i could and i always gave her a big hug and told that she was beautiful and that i loved her...the last time i saw her was a couple months ago at school and i will never forget how i felt when i saw her and gave her a big hug...i will always treasure the memories i have and i will never lose the pictures of us. - i love you becky and i will miss you
Laura Apostle-Noffke
November 5th 2009
When Becky was in 6th grade, she needed some assistance in her studies. I quickly found out that I had a little "spark of energy" to tutor. I loved our sessions together and when I found out Becky played the flute, that was another thing we had in common, as I also played the flute. We loved to get to the end of our tutoring sessions so we would play our flutes together. I quickly formed a special bond with Becky. We kept in touch, even after I moved to Arizona to accept a teaching job. Becky would write and email to me. I even had my students write her letters to brighten up her day!
Becky will be missed! I am very sad to hear about her passing away, but know that she is one of God's angels up in heaven! My deepest sympathies go out to Becky's family. Praying for all of you!!
Laura Apostle-Noffke
Fred Smith
November 5th 2009
Bob, Paul, an Sietsema Family, I'm very sorry for your loss. Freddy
Cindy Meister
November 5th 2009
Bob, Paul, Family,Our thoughts an prayer are with you at this time of sadness, may you find comfort with friends and loved ones.I did'nt know Becky,but I can tell she was a sweet young lady an full of life.Thank God for the time you all had with her.I'll keep you in my thoughts and prayers.
Kristi Bradford
November 5th 2009
Bob and Paul, we are so sorry for your loss. Our thoughts and prayers are with you and your families. Love, Kristi and staff: Bud and Rays Transmission Service
Dr. Dickens
November 5th 2009
Becky faced her illness with tremendous courage. Although her cancer had greatly affected her body, it could not touch her spirit. I will always remember her tenacity and fierce independence. She could teach anyone how to lead a life, despite adversity, with maturity, determination and dignity. She will be missed by her family at Helen DeVos Children's Hospital.
David Dickens
Charlene Drake and Kim Chorny
November 5th 2009
Lori, Paul and Elsie
We can not find the words to say how sorry we are for your loss are prayers are with your family at this time.
Janet Brushman
November 4th 2009
I was very blessed to be Becky's kindergarten teacher. I will always remember her beautiful smile and her eagerness to learn. I remember her as being a friend to everyone and always willing to help. Words cannot express how sorry I am for your family with the loss of your beautiful daughter. You are all in my prayers.
Tina Edlund
November 4th 2009
Dear Paul, Lorie, Elsie & family,
Our hearts hurt so deeply for you. No parent ever wants to bury a child. Lorie, I remember when you were pregnant for Becky, & then the day came when you brought her into our restaurant. You were both so proud & beaming with smiles, with that beautiful baby girl. Becky could not have asked for two better parents than she had.
Please remember you are always in out thoughts & prayers. Love, George & Tina Edlund xoxo
Deb Foster
November 4th 2009
Becky was a joy and a blessing to all those who knew and loved her. Becky had a great sense of humor and just being with her made you laugh and feel good. She had a light of her own and just being with her made you feel her warmth and compassion. Her beautiful eyes captured the magic inside her, and her beautiful smile reached far and wide. Her beautiful spirit and playfulness would draw you in, she was geniune and pure and had a heart of gold. Becky was an amazing individual , she touched the lives of so many in the short time she was with us, she will not be alone , we will find comfort in knowing that our angel Becky will live on in spirit and will continue to shine. We will miss you dearly, our dear cousin, and second generation cousins. With will keep you in our hearts always,
with love, Deb, Jeff, Nicole and Amanda Foster
Terri Schaefer
November 4th 2009
Every Christmas-Eve Becky and her sister Elsie, along with Paul and Lori came to our house. Last year their was a bad storm and for the first time EVER only 1 family came. It ended up being Just Becky and her family. Becky and Elsie and I spent most of the time in the Kitchen talking and laughing.
It was my best Christmas ever. I am so glad Becky and Elsie and I had that precious time together. Over this last year I have thought often how much fun we had. It was truly a blessing and so was Becky! Love Ya Aunt Terri
Nicole Carpenter
November 4th 2009
allrite me and becky werent that close ne more...i mean we talked here and there, but nuttin like we used to. we were n girl scouts together and had classes together so we talked alot and we have alot of good memoriez and kiilz me knowin that shez gone. and everyone that i know that haz passed besides aaron phame haz died of cancer and i know wht the familey iiz goin thur and i just wanna say that im very sry. i mean and iit makez me made mad she waz sooo young and had her whole life ahide of her and now iitz gone.i just guezz i dont understand,grrr iitz messed up!!!!
Becky i will miss you .
Sue Oliphant
November 3rd 2009
I can still see Becky and Taylor on there first day of preschool. They were so excited and so cute. I am so sorry for your loss. Although its been a while since i've seen Becky she was always such a sweet girl with a beautiful smile.
Sherri O'Neil
November 3rd 2009
I have many great memories of Becky. However, one memory sticks out vividly in my mind. When she and Elsie were just little gals they came and stayed with me for a week. Becky had a serious attachment to that "blankie"!! Wherever she went the "blankie" went too! Somehow we misplaced the blankie for a short time. Becky shed a few tears and then moved on with her day. A clear indication of how her character would develop. We did find the "blankie" and all was well again. We had a great time that week. We went to the beach, shopped (remember those matching dresses Elsie?), and just enjoyed being together. Becky was a very courageous young lady who fought harder than most will know. She will always be treasured, remembered and loved.
Sarah Ritsema
November 3rd 2009
There are so many memories that I have of Becky in our 11th grade English class. Most importantly, she was grateful to be in class which so many students take for granted. She was talented beyond her years and more than she would ever give herself credit. She was her own biggest critic about the work she did (this always made me smile). It was just that she wanted to have everything said and portrayed exactly how she meant it, or to her it would be pointless...I agreed. I admired and was impressed by her. One particular memory was of her presenting to the class. She didn't want to and I told her she didn't have to, but at the end of the presentations, to my surprise, she raised her hand and said she would like to go ahead and present (Oh how she could command an audience with just her presence). Suddenly, she bravely began speaking of living with cancer in front of a classroom of peers, and for a moment, I actually saw every student learning... learning what it is to have grace and learning what a privilege it is to have health. I can't imagine any student in that class will ever forget that day; they certainly will never forget Becky nor will I. She taught me more than I could ever teach her. I am truly blessed to have known her. She will be greatly missed.
Glenna
November 15th 2009
Paulie and Lori,
Although I never had the privlage of meeting Becky, after reading her lifestory it is evient that she had her mother's focus and determination, and her father's love for adventure and fun. An amazing combination.
Becky may have left this earth too soon....but her memory lives on with you and through you.
Love you,
Glenna
Corenne Ching
November 11th 2009
I was so sorry to hear of Becky's passing. I had the opportunity to see her last summer at the cottage on the lake. She was in such good spirits, I was impressed by her courage with all she had been through.
I didn't know her well, but first met her while visiting with Paul's cousin Sherri many years ago. Becky was just a little girl then and both she and her sister Elsie were fun to be around. They had made refrigerator magnets out of bottle caps and I still have this Red Bonnet on the side of my fridge and each time I look at it I think of that visit at the Sietsema family home. May God Bless you all in this time of great sadness.
Nicole Carney
November 8th 2009
I remember Prom with Becky. Elsie was so worried about her, and always wanted to keep an eye on her and really only went because Becky had asked her too. Those two were so close even if they didn't always get along, they would be good again 5 minutes later. She was such a nice person and I always saw her smiling. You wanted to be around her because she had such a bright personality and she was so nice to everyone. It's a horrible loss, everyone wanted her to pull through. She is definetly missed by family, friends and even those who didn't know her well. My thoughts and prayers go out to the family and all others who are suffering. R.I.P. Becky
Kelly Rhoades
November 7th 2009
Dear Paul and Lori:
Seems like yesterday (we were just a little older than Becky) when we were having way too much fun at CMU. We all crashed in my tiny college apartment, eating pizza, cranking out the tunes on my turn table, playing ALBUMS and staying up half the night. Life was simpler then. No responsibilities... just lots of fun with great friends.
I haven't see you guys in awhile. I did not know Elsie and Becky at all -- just through stories that Kevin and Thora have shared over the years. I do feel like I got to know Becky a little better by reading the memories and stories on this website. Lori, I see your reflection in her pretty face. She was so lovely.
I could not attend the funeral, so please know I am thinking of your family as you enter into life without Becky's physical presence. She is always with you. After Dale died, I found comfort in connection with the blue heron -- it has become an earthly image of our father-daughter bond. I watch sunsets, and I see the heron fly by and I talk to him, still. I hope that all of you can find a lasting connection that represents the very soul of your precious Becky. I am so sad that you have had to endure this loss.
I will continue to hold hope for all of you, as you begin to find your way toward healing.
I love you guys,
Kelly Rhoades
Julie(Murphy) Maynard
November 6th 2009
We bring into our lives, lights that are our children.
They shine so ever brightly as they grow. Their exploits
and laughter are left in our memories like a picture is exposed on film. Your Becky's light was dimmed from view much too soon. But, it's glow and warmth, those memories, will stay with all who knew her. They are her gift.
My thoughts and prayers go out to you.
Julie
Ellen Achterhof
November 5th 2009
Lori and family,
Prayers and thoughts for all of you. Trusting in the belief of only the good die young and there is Eternal Life.
May God grant you peace.
Ellen
Jake Lubbers
November 5th 2009
When I think of Becky, I think of her in Intermediate School, walking down the hall in a green Leaping Lizards hoodie with her glasses and gorgeous hair. That's how I'll always remember her. Beautiful.
In Middle School I sat by her in Mrs. Hager's class. I remember on one day that we were talking about relationships and agreed that we didn't like the idea of calling somebody our boy/girlfriend, that it was too much of a title.
I will greatly miss Becky,and though we grew apart over the years, I'll never forget her, or her smile.
May God be with her family and friends.
Mary Upman
November 5th 2009
I remember going up to the Sietsema cabin one summer with the family where Becky & I started talking and then eventually started hanging out more & more. We lost alot of our contact when I went to highschool and she was still in middle school. I will never forget the joy in her face walking through the halls of RPHS, how she would smile through her struggles & go above and beyond to make someone elses' day amazing!
You will be missed & much love goes out to you
Alex Evans
November 5th 2009
I didn't know Becky, if fact I can't say I have ever talked to her. I just remember sitting behind her everyday in band class and think of how pretty she was. I admired her and her cool, calm, relaxed attitude. I had no idea about her cancer until they announced at school she had passed away. It really made me reexamine my life.
Danielle Stewart
November 5th 2009
Becky and I became really good friends in middle school, and we were best friends through freshman and some of sophmore year. I hate that I wasn't there more, I guess I never really thought that it would ever get this bad. I haven't even seen Becky in at least a year, but I'm still going to miss her, just like everyone else will.
She was incredible.
Tara Dunlap
November 5th 2009
I've known Becky for a long time. Ever since like 5th grade i believe. We had band together and she was such a great friend and a nice person. We have so many amazing memories together and i miss her so much. i will never forget our laughs and cries and how we would talk about our boy trouble. she was always there for me and i could never ask for a better friend. i love you becky and i know your in a better place now. im not going to say good-bye to you because i will be seeing you again. just promise to save a place for me next to you
love always T
Julie (Conklin) Moyer
November 5th 2009
Lori, I'm so sorry to hear of your daughters passing. I remember when she was born when we both worked at Mercy Hospital. I wasn't aware that she was friends with my son, Jimmy until this afternoon when I went on line and read her life story. Jimmy had told me of his friend who was sick a couple years ago. I wanted you to know that I prayed for her then and I'm praying for you and your family now during this difficult time.
Julie (Conklin) Moyer and Jimmy Conklin
sebastian hoffman
November 5th 2009
well i've known becky since the 1st grade and she was always a fun person to be around...i started hanging out with her more in middle school and i really admired her and my step sister teased me because she was on my mind alot and i was always really excited to be able to hang out with her...she was honestly one of the most beautiful girls i have ever met and i told her that every time i saw her and although she didnt beleive me, i meant every word from the bottom of my heart. when she came back to school last year i was really glad to see her every day and i sat with her at lunch and hung out with her as much as i could and i always gave her a big hug and told that she was beautiful and that i loved her...the last time i saw her was a couple months ago at school and i will never forget how i felt when i saw her and gave her a big hug...i will always treasure the memories i have and i will never lose the pictures of us. - i love you becky and i will miss you
Laura Apostle-Noffke
November 5th 2009
When Becky was in 6th grade, she needed some assistance in her studies. I quickly found out that I had a little "spark of energy" to tutor. I loved our sessions together and when I found out Becky played the flute, that was another thing we had in common, as I also played the flute. We loved to get to the end of our tutoring sessions so we would play our flutes together. I quickly formed a special bond with Becky. We kept in touch, even after I moved to Arizona to accept a teaching job. Becky would write and email to me. I even had my students write her letters to brighten up her day!
Becky will be missed! I am very sad to hear about her passing away, but know that she is one of God's angels up in heaven! My deepest sympathies go out to Becky's family. Praying for all of you!!
Laura Apostle-Noffke
Fred Smith
November 5th 2009
Bob, Paul, an Sietsema Family, I'm very sorry for your loss. Freddy
Cindy Meister
November 5th 2009
Bob, Paul, Family,Our thoughts an prayer are with you at this time of sadness, may you find comfort with friends and loved ones.I did'nt know Becky,but I can tell she was a sweet young lady an full of life.Thank God for the time you all had with her.I'll keep you in my thoughts and prayers.
Kristi Bradford
November 5th 2009
Bob and Paul, we are so sorry for your loss. Our thoughts and prayers are with you and your families. Love, Kristi and staff: Bud and Rays Transmission Service
Dr. Dickens
November 5th 2009
Becky faced her illness with tremendous courage. Although her cancer had greatly affected her body, it could not touch her spirit. I will always remember her tenacity and fierce independence. She could teach anyone how to lead a life, despite adversity, with maturity, determination and dignity. She will be missed by her family at Helen DeVos Children's Hospital.
David Dickens
Charlene Drake and Kim Chorny
November 5th 2009
Lori, Paul and Elsie
We can not find the words to say how sorry we are for your loss are prayers are with your family at this time.
Janet Brushman
November 4th 2009
I was very blessed to be Becky's kindergarten teacher. I will always remember her beautiful smile and her eagerness to learn. I remember her as being a friend to everyone and always willing to help. Words cannot express how sorry I am for your family with the loss of your beautiful daughter. You are all in my prayers.
Tina Edlund
November 4th 2009
Dear Paul, Lorie, Elsie & family,
Our hearts hurt so deeply for you. No parent ever wants to bury a child. Lorie, I remember when you were pregnant for Becky, & then the day came when you brought her into our restaurant. You were both so proud & beaming with smiles, with that beautiful baby girl. Becky could not have asked for two better parents than she had.
Please remember you are always in out thoughts & prayers. Love, George & Tina Edlund xoxo
Deb Foster
November 4th 2009
Becky was a joy and a blessing to all those who knew and loved her. Becky had a great sense of humor and just being with her made you laugh and feel good. She had a light of her own and just being with her made you feel her warmth and compassion. Her beautiful eyes captured the magic inside her, and her beautiful smile reached far and wide. Her beautiful spirit and playfulness would draw you in, she was geniune and pure and had a heart of gold. Becky was an amazing individual , she touched the lives of so many in the short time she was with us, she will not be alone , we will find comfort in knowing that our angel Becky will live on in spirit and will continue to shine. We will miss you dearly, our dear cousin, and second generation cousins. With will keep you in our hearts always,
with love, Deb, Jeff, Nicole and Amanda Foster
Terri Schaefer
November 4th 2009
Every Christmas-Eve Becky and her sister Elsie, along with Paul and Lori came to our house. Last year their was a bad storm and for the first time EVER only 1 family came. It ended up being Just Becky and her family. Becky and Elsie and I spent most of the time in the Kitchen talking and laughing.
It was my best Christmas ever. I am so glad Becky and Elsie and I had that precious time together. Over this last year I have thought often how much fun we had. It was truly a blessing and so was Becky! Love Ya Aunt Terri
Nicole Carpenter
November 4th 2009
allrite me and becky werent that close ne more...i mean we talked here and there, but nuttin like we used to. we were n girl scouts together and had classes together so we talked alot and we have alot of good memoriez and kiilz me knowin that shez gone. and everyone that i know that haz passed besides aaron phame haz died of cancer and i know wht the familey iiz goin thur and i just wanna say that im very sry. i mean and iit makez me made mad she waz sooo young and had her whole life ahide of her and now iitz gone.i just guezz i dont understand,grrr iitz messed up!!!!
Becky i will miss you .
Sue Oliphant
November 3rd 2009
I can still see Becky and Taylor on there first day of preschool. They were so excited and so cute. I am so sorry for your loss. Although its been a while since i've seen Becky she was always such a sweet girl with a beautiful smile.
Sherri O'Neil
November 3rd 2009
I have many great memories of Becky. However, one memory sticks out vividly in my mind. When she and Elsie were just little gals they came and stayed with me for a week. Becky had a serious attachment to that "blankie"!! Wherever she went the "blankie" went too! Somehow we misplaced the blankie for a short time. Becky shed a few tears and then moved on with her day. A clear indication of how her character would develop. We did find the "blankie" and all was well again. We had a great time that week. We went to the beach, shopped (remember those matching dresses Elsie?), and just enjoyed being together. Becky was a very courageous young lady who fought harder than most will know. She will always be treasured, remembered and loved.
Sarah Ritsema
November 3rd 2009
There are so many memories that I have of Becky in our 11th grade English class. Most importantly, she was grateful to be in class which so many students take for granted. She was talented beyond her years and more than she would ever give herself credit. She was her own biggest critic about the work she did (this always made me smile). It was just that she wanted to have everything said and portrayed exactly how she meant it, or to her it would be pointless...I agreed. I admired and was impressed by her. One particular memory was of her presenting to the class. She didn't want to and I told her she didn't have to, but at the end of the presentations, to my surprise, she raised her hand and said she would like to go ahead and present (Oh how she could command an audience with just her presence). Suddenly, she bravely began speaking of living with cancer in front of a classroom of peers, and for a moment, I actually saw every student learning... learning what it is to have grace and learning what a privilege it is to have health. I can't imagine any student in that class will ever forget that day; they certainly will never forget Becky nor will I. She taught me more than I could ever teach her. I am truly blessed to have known her. She will be greatly missed.
