Irene Behm

Irene J. Behm, 77, Grand Forks, ND, died Thursday, January 4, 2018 in Valley Eldercare Center. Irene was born January 30, 1940 in Twin Valley, MN, the daughter of John and Ida Bakke. She was raised in East Grand Forks, MN and graduated from East Grand Forks Senior High School. Irene married the love of her life Robert Behm in Garden Grove, CA. They moved back to Grand Forks, ND where they raised their family. Irene and Bob owned and operated seasonal stores, selling fireworks and Christmas trees in Grand Forks. She also worked at J. R. Simplot for 20 years. Irene enjoyed spending time at the lake, animals –especially cats, board games, old time country western music and occasional trips to Laughlin, NV. You could always find Irene with an ice cold Coca-Cola in her hand.  Survivors include her daughter, Kristy Behm, Grand Forks; granddaughters, Taylor Behm (Michael House), and Annie Behm-Raymond; great grandchildren, Ainslee and Charles; sister, Maxine Kossow, Grand Forks; brother-in-law, Bill Behm; sisters-in-law, Marie (Floyd) Bye, Ione (Roger) Jacobson, Lorraine Abbott, Delores Krogen, Eunice (John) Novick, Verdell Smith and Eleanore Broton; and numerous nieces and nephews. She was preceded in death by her husband, Bob;  beloved son, John Behm; brother, Jim Bakke; and a niece, Deb Lee. Funeral Services will be 11:00 AM Saturday, January 13, 2018 at Calvary Lutheran Church of Grand Forks, ND. Visitation will be for the hour before the service in the church. Burial will be in Memorial Park Cemetery of Grand Forks.