Monica Bethke

Monica Louise (Stroschein) Bethke, 71, of American Falls, Idaho, passed away from Acute Myeloid Leukemia and joined her Savior on June 29, 2023.

Monica was born May 24, 1952, in Aberdeen, Idaho, to Ronald and Betty (Prudhomme) Stroschein; she was the third child of nine. She spent her childhood on the family farm where she worked and played hard with her eight siblings, neighbors, and friends. She attended Aberdeen schools, graduating from high school in 1970. After graduation Monica continued her education at Idaho State University.

While in high school, Monica’s sister Virginia set her up on a blind date with her future husband and love of her life, Larry Steven Bethke.  They were married December 29, 1972. Monica and Larry shared many of the same passions, including their life-long dream of owning and operating a family farm in South Pleasant Valley outside of American Falls, Idaho.

This dream was realized through hard work and dedication. They were true partners, working side by side on the farm and raising their family. From simple beginnings they developed a large and successful farm and beautiful life together.  The most important part of their life was being blessed with two sons, Jerid and Nicholas (Nick), eight grandchildren and one great-grandchild.

Monica took great pride in being a good wife and partner, a loving mother and grandmother, and a good neighbor, friend, and sister.

Monica had so many treasured memories, a few of these were participating in Beta Sigma Phi Sorority functions, her annual Girls Golf Vacation with friends, annual Sister’s Weekend, as well as many memorable family vacations.

Monica was not only a successful farmer; she was also an artist and a natural athlete.  Her stained-glass pieces were sought after by many and are still on display at multiple local churches.  The attention to even the smallest detail was amazing and unique. She shared at least one piece of art with each sibling, as well as friends and other family members. Monica also expressed her creativity through her perfectly manicured yard and exquisite flower gardens. She spent many summer evenings on her deck enjoying the beauty of her yard and also found great joy in feeding and watching the Hummingbirds.

Monica enjoyed a variety of activities. She participated in bowling, softball, skiing, snowmobiling, fishing, camping and above all golfing. Monica competed in and won several golf tournaments throughout her life and was the American Falls Ladies Club champion in past years. She also held numerous volunteer positions, including teaching religious education at the Roman Catholic Church in American Falls, where she was a devout member.

Monica celebrated the holidays with great enthusiasm.  The Stroschein’s family Christmas celebration, hosted by Monica and Larry, was a magical time. Every room in the house was decorated with Monica’s festive style and the meal was always plentiful and delicious. There was an abundance of laughter and love!

Monica is survived by her husband, Larry Bethke, of American Falls, ID; two sons, Jerid Bethke of Barrington, New Hampshire, Nicholas Bethke (Cindy) of American Falls, ID; ten grandchildren, Dawson, Preston, Ashton, Addison, Kylee (Skylar), Kody, Kole, Brendan, Amber and Kenny; one great grandchild, Colt; six siblings, Virginia Stroschein, Mark (Michelle) Stroschein, Teresa (Rodger) Wagner, Anita Stroschein, Ronda (Ray) Burgemeister Rita (Steven) Aumeier, and sister-in-law, Gayle Stroschein.

She was preceded in death by her parents, Ronald and Betty Stroschein; a brother, Kirk Stroschein, sister, Cecilia McNutt; niece, Jessica McNutt; and brother-in-law, Raymond Burgemeister.

Monica will forever be loved and remembered by those that knew her. She had a strong, confident presence that could not be ignored. Her life’s journey was traveled with faith, spirit, love, devotion and grit. She was a twenty-four-year breast cancer survivor.  - A truly unique individual.  

A viewing will be held from 9:30 to 10 :30 AM, Thursday, July 6, 2023, followed by an 11:00 AM funeral Mass at Saint Mary Catholic Church, 352 Roosevelt St, American Falls, ID.

Monica will be laid to rest at Falls View Cemetery. A luncheon will be served at the St John’s Lutheran church, 656 Tyhee Ave., American Falls, ID.

To share condolences, memories, and photos, please visit DavisRoseMortuary.com.