Gary John Bethke

Gary John Bethke passed into his heavenly home on 2/14/2021 as a result of complications from cancer at his home with his family by his side.  Gary was born on June 2, 1939 to Ervin and Leona Bethke (Zurcher) of Upham ND, along with his identical twin brother Glenn.  He cherished the lifetime bond the Lord gave him with Glenn throughout his life. He graduated from Upham High School in 1956, received a bachelor’s degree in Business and Mathematics from Minot State College, and obtained a master’s degree in Mathematics from Western Michigan University.  

Gary married the love of his life, Gloria (Niewoehner,) on July 2, 1962.  After living in Minot for several years, they settled in Grand Forks, ND where they raised their three children and shared a wonderful life together. Gary was blessed with two occupations he loved: teaching and farming.  He spent the majority of his teaching years at Red River High School.  He loved his students and seeing the spark in their eyes when they learned something new. He spent his summers on the family farm with his twin brother planting and harvesting grains. Nothing gave him more joy than harvesting a field of wheat.  

Gary had an exuberance for life, a love of adventure, and shared laughter with everyone he met.  He was always full of energy and engaged in a wide variety of interests including time with family, travel, DIY projects, all sports, and time with friends. He attended every event of his children or grandchildren and supported the development of their interests.  He was an active member of Immanuel Lutheran Church where he enjoyed worshipping God, mission work, and sharing his faith.  He was always eager to lend a helping hand when there was a need whether it was with Feed My Starving Children, disaster  relief, or a neighbor or friend.  

Gary was preceded in death by his parents.  He is survived by his wife Gloria, children Todd (Lori) of Bloomington, MN, Renae (Tim Wilson) of St. Paul, MN, and Melanie Bethke, St. Paul, MN.  Grandchildren: Matthew, Amy, Cyrus, and Jonah. Brother Glenn (Sandra) and sister Margaret Johnson and cherished nieces and nephews. He will be greatly missed by all that knew and loved him.

A private family service will be held at Immanuel Lutheran Church, https://www.immanuelgf.com/ . A larger celebration of life may be planned at another time.  In lieu of flowers, memorials are preferred to Immanuel Lutheran Church and Feed My Starving Children.