
Date Of Birth: October 5, 1953
Date Of Death: April 6, 2010
Rebekah Ray McCracken, 56, of Indianapolis passed away suddenly on Tuesday, April 6, 2010. She was born in Pana, Illinois on October 5, 1953, the daughter of the late John N. McCracken and Burma June Ray Armstrong. She is survived by her husband and best friend Don Bogard, beloved children, daughter Sarah (Patrick) Bogen and son Noah (Stephanie Keough) Blan, granddaughters Emma Bogen, Caroline Bogen and Isabella Bogen, sister Julie (Clifford Zolna) McCracken and brother Michael (Yvonne Prilliman) McCracken, and special friends too many to name. Rebekah was an ordained non-sectarian minister and counselor, Reiki Master, faithful believer, gifted artist, quirky humorist, excellent cook, president of the P.E.O., member of The Columbia Club, and friend to all who crossed her life’s path. Whenever you hear the wind ring the wind chimes, think of her large and benevolent spirit. Visitation will be held Sunday, April 11 from 4-7 p.m. at the Harry W. Moore Funeral Care. A celebration of Rebekah’s life will be held at 2 p.m. Monday, April 12th. In lieu of flowers, contributions may be sent in her memory to the P.E.O’s Cottey College, 1000 W. Austin, Nevada, MO 64772.







Rafael Diokno says
Our deepest sympathies to Rebekah’s family for the loss of one so dearly loved.
the diokno’s of danville
Sandra Schoonover Hakanson says
You are truly now my Angel Girl. What a gift you have been to our family and everyone whose life you touched. Spread your wings and soar until we can fly together. Love, Sandra
Sheri D Morrison Engelhart says
In fond memory of our childhood and school days spent together.
Darlene Swenny Reeter says
You were a lovely friend whom will always be remembered. God needed another young person to help in his garden of the faithful.May your family find the comfort that God so openly gives to those left behind, as Becky is now in a much better place, making way for her loved ones to join her oneday.
Steve Rickleff says
She was such a loving spirited person, such a great loss and she inspires us to keep carrying her torch
Carroll Josie Henneke says
Don and the family. We are saddened deeply and have heavy hearts as we mourn with you. Rebekah was a delight to all her met and knew her. She will be sorely missed by so many. May God give you comfort and peace.
Arlene Swenny Froelich says
I was a classmate with Becky in Pana, she was such a wonderful person to know. My sympathy and prayers go to Beckys family. May God support you in this time of sorrow.
Dena Adden says
Rebekah and I were classmates in Pana. We had recently re-connected. My last conversation with her was of her love of her cats. I know she’ll be missed by all who knew her.
Jill Sackett Dicken says
Sarah and Noah:
I was devastated to hear about your mom. You are in my prayers during such a difficult time. I have such wonderful memories of sharing Sundays with you and your mom. She was kind, loving, generous and so gracious to our family. Much love to you both. Jill
Trina Weber says
Dear Sarah, Patrick, and Girls, I am so sorry for your loss. You will be in my thoughts and prayers.
With Much Love and Christ’s Blessings,
Trina
Robert Papa Bailey says
Dear Rebekah…Thought of as a daughter , Viberant as a beautiful spring day and will be remembered by me with love ,forever…Papa
Tanya Smyth says
My thoughts and prayers are with the entire family. Saddened by this news, but she certainly shared a great part of herself with us in my friend Noah.
Stephanie Mc Elwee Alpaugh says
I am so sorry for your loss. Rebekah and I were childhood friends in Pana. Her mother June and my mother were good friends also. Becky was a treasure, with a unique spirit. We had only recently re-connected, and I am very glad we did. I will keep you in my prayers.
Diane Williamson Michael says
I am so sorry for your loss. Rebekah and I were friends growing up in Pana. She was an incredible person with an inspiring gift for life. Rebekah’s life and spirit continue in the lives she touched.
Peggy Ade Campbell says
Becky was a dear classmate and friend. She will be missed. My prayers and thoughts are with her family.
Juli Bailey says
My dear friend, I can hardly believe you are gone. You were loved by all who knew you. Know that we will all miss you terribly and think about you often. I will always remember your “Zinger” sense of humor was always punctuated by a giggle. You were, and still are, the most vibrant person I know. The light always just screamed out of your person and demanded to be noticed. You were also the most kindest hearted person I knew.
I remember the first day I met you. I’d moved down to Houston & it was my first Christmas here. What a Christmas day that was, too, because the sewers backed up into both bathrooms. I was able to run over let you guys know before it ruined the carpeting. What a lovely little “Present” that was. And then, you were a part of my life. I was alone without family and you were a very good friend to me, helping me in my most lonely of days.
I will think of you often. I will keep your beloved Don in my prayers. You were so proud of him. I know you worried about him and I’ll be sure to worry for him, for you. If I know you, though, you’ll be right there with him, helping along the way.
Much love to you all. Don’t hesitate to call on me if you should need ANYTHING. I’ll do my best to be the friend Rebekah would have been for my Papa.
Much Love,
Juli Bailey
Linda Dust says
I will never look at a bonfire without thinking of Rebekah and her warmth and spirit. My heart is broken over the loss of one of my dearest and most cherished friend. All my love and prayers to Don and all of the family.
Linda Dressen says
My Deepest Sympathy to her family. I went through school with Rebekah and graduated with her. She was a very special person.
Brandi Cunningham Norton says
Sarah,
I am so sorry to hear about the loss of your mother. I always remember her being such a sweet and soft spoken woman with a kind heart. You and your family will be in our prayers!
Michelle Busby says
Though it’s been a long time, you are remembered!..on behalf of Sharon Tennyson, Lisa (Tennyson)Rhodes, Karen Tennyson, Michelle (Tennyson) Busby
Stan Sue Bockewitz says
To Rebekah’s family, you have our deepest sympathy. We went to school with Rebekah in Pana and will remember all of the good times. You are in our thoughts and prayers.
John Scheidler says
Don, I read with sadness in the Star this morning about the passing of Rebekah. I then received an email message from Steve Powell. Although I never met her, it was apparent from her obituary and your marriage to her, that she was a special person who made a difference. Eric Cavanaugh said he met her with you waiting for a table at Maggiano’s last Fall and she was delightful. Our thoughts are with you, your family and her family at this time of great sadness. Thanks. John Scheidler
Clint Pruitt says
Sarah and Noah, I am so sorry to hear of your loss. My prayers are with you. Your mother was one of the sweetest most beautiful women that I ever met. I’ll be thinking of you both.
Chuck Williams says
Don
So saddened to hear of your loss. Rebekah put a smile on your face that I had never seen before. My deepest sympathy to you and your family.
Shirley Bleveans says
I am so sad to hear about rebekah I am originally from Danville she was one of my sisters best friends and she could always make my sis laugh and smile. When i moved to indy I called her she invited me to a 4th of july cook out i didnt get to go but she was so loving and caring of people just hard to think of her not being on this earth but god has a special place for her.
shirley bleveans
Shirley Bleveans says
I am so sad to hear about rebekah I am originally from Danville she was one of my sisters best friends and she could always make my sis laugh and smile. When i moved to indy I called her she invited me to a 4th of july cook out i didnt get to go but she was so loving and caring of people just hard to think of her not being on this earth but god has a special place for her.
shirley bleveans
Phil Richards says
Dear Don Bogard & Family,
We will all miss her presence! Presence being the operative!
Rebekah is the only person I know who could walk into a Village Pantry or Dollar General Store etc., as if, she were walking the red carpet and exit the store as if she had just won. She made the mundane seem like anything but. I knew her as an artist with an unbridled imagination. She was grounded in life by a loving space and her willingness to share that, with such ease, is what I will cherish. I share in your loss.
Sincerely and much Aloha,
Dave Mary VanSpeybroeck says
Mike and Yvonne, we are so sorry to hear of your loss. Even though we only met Rebekah once, she was a very sweet person. We will keep you and your family in our prayers.
Cal Wilson says
You’re in my prayers. I’m so sorry for your loss. It’s a great blow to the entire chapter.
Shari Renee ThomasGray says
My deepest sympathy and regrets. May God bless your family.
Dan White says
Karen and I are very sorry for your great loss.
Steve and Dorella Powell says
We are both so sorry for your loss.
Pat Lewis says
Our sincerest condolences.
Pat and Valerie Lewis
Donna Martz says
Dear Don and family,
I am so sorry to hear the shocking news of you loss. Rebeckah was a beautiful loving person and a joy to be around. Please accept my deepest condolences. May God be with you and strengthen you through this difficult time.
Sincerely, Donna Martz
Amie Peele Carter says
Don and family: Please accept my deepest condolences on the loss of your beloved Rebekah. She was a beacon of light in a stressful world and a loving support to so many. She will be sorely missed. I have fond memories of Rebekah as a delightful friend and P.E.O. sister and will cherish them for years to come.
Peace and love to you at this difficult time.
Amie
Mary Ann Stein Cilley says
My heartfelt condolnces go out to Rebekah’s family and friends. Rebekah was always a free spirit and a wonderful person to know.
BJ Morrison Mauck says
I too went to high school with Rebekah. She was such a lovely girl then and from the words I read here, she blossomed into an even lovelier woman. My sincere condolences to her entire family.
Barb Burdzilauskas says
My deepest sympathy to Becky’s family and friends. I knew Becky in high school. Barb Burdzilauskas
Gail Sackett says
Our heartfelt sympathies go to Rebekah’s family. She was a dear friend and I will miss her terribly. Chuck and Gail Sackett
Linda Worker says
My deepest sympathy to Rebekah’s family.
Susan Parvin Gillim says
Don & Family,
Parvin and I are sorry for your loss. RebekahÆs smile, laughter, and personality lit up the room when she entered. Her loving and infectious attitude brought comfort to those that were fortunate enough to have known her. We consider ourselves blessed to have been in her life.
Anne Luthi says
Although I didn’t have the pleasure of knowing Rebekah, I do know her sister, Julie,brother in law, Cliff and Annie. My heart and prayers go out to the entire family in this time of loss. May all of your memories of Rebekah sustain and keep you during this tragic period. God will see you through this.
Carol Thompson says
I am so sorry for your loss.
Jeanne Alexander says
To Mike – I am sorry for the loss of Rebekah – I am so glad I met her. I remember her bubbly personality. I could tell she loved you. In the silence and the quiet sadness that you feel may all your good times and the loving relationship you shared give you peace. Don – I had the privilege of meeting your lovely bride. Please accept my sincere sympathy and in your quiet sadness may you hang on to that she lived (what a smile she had) and that your life with her gave you memories too beautiful to forget. Hugs to the entire family.
Stoney Burke says
Michael we are so sorry to hear this news. Our thoughts and prayers are with you and your family. Take care my friend.Terri and Stoney
Debbie Wey says
I am so sorry for your loss. My thoughts and prayers are with you and your family.
Barbara Black says
Itwas. with sadness to learn of Rebekak’s passing, I look forward to seeing her in heaven
Rosemary Reynolds says
Don, I’m so sorry to hear about the loss of Rebekah. You & your family are in my thoughts & prayers.
Dana Lynn says
McCracken family,
My the memories of your loved one keep her strong and alive in your hearts forever. You are in our thoughts and prayers during this difficult time.
Dana & Jim Lynn
Carline and Dick Keough says
Noah – Unfortunately we never met your mother but it is obvious that she was a very special lady and will be missed by many. Our deepest condolences to you and your family. You and Stephanie have been in our thoughts and prayers during this difficult time.
Debbie Barr says
Rebekah was an amazing lady! She instantly captivated men and women with her charismatic beauty and bewitching spirit! I will always remember her charming grace and witty humour that we all LOVED. Her presence blessed us all.
Barbara Weaver Smith says
Don and family,
We are so saddened by the loss of your lovely wife, mother, friend–she was a good friend to us and we will miss her. Thinking of you all and wishing you comfort.
Barbara and Larry Smith
Sharon Stevens says
Don and family: Memories, laughter and love are the treasures we keep forever. Let those good memories play over and over in your hearts. Rebekah will be sorely missed. Though I knew her for just a short time, I have wonderful memories of Rebekah as a special friend and P.E.O. sister.
My deepest condolences to you all at this difficult time.
Jan Ellyn McCracken says
Julie and Mike,
I was so sorry to hear about Becky. My thoughts are with you,
Sincerely,
Jan
GARRY HINKLE says
SARAH & NOAH,
YOUR MOM WAS MY CLOSEST FRIEND IN THE DANVILLE YEARS MID 70S TO MID 90S. THERE IS A SPECIAL PLACE IN MY HEART FOR HER. ADD MY NAME TO YOUR GROWING LIST OF PEOPLE WHO LOVED HER AND WILL MISS HER.
SINCERELY, GARRY HINKLE
Jeff Margie Zaring says
Your sweet smile, lively laughter and gentle spirit will be missed by many. You made many a dinner at the Columbia Club a joyous event. I never knew you were my PEO sister but I’m not at all surpised. Fly swifly to heaven, my friend.
Bill Murphy says
Don…I still cannot make any sense of how this could have occurred. I am so sorry….You two were a perfect match..We will keep you and the family in our prayers…
Alan McConnell says
Faith is such a personal thing. Some believe in one masculine God, some in one feminine, some in many, or none at all. Despite these differences there is one thing on which we can all agree. Those who pass through our lives leave a part of themselves behind to miss, to love, and also to comfort us.
Rebekah believed life is an infinite growth experience. She perceived life as an ever-turning wheel. As this ethereal wheel turns through each year of THIS life, we learn lessons we take to the next. The more lessons we learn, the older, wiser, and more compassionate our souls become.
Whether you believe this or not, there is one thing on which we can all agree. Rebekah lives on in the spirits, memories and hearts of those who knew her.
She projected an elegant, humble, loving and nurturing spirit to all. She loved easily and lived generously.
We all miss her in a different context and I celebrate the certainty that she will remain with each us for as long as the wheel turns.
Barb Lewis Rotondi says
I knew Becky from school and church in the Pana, IL days. She was a very sweet and gifted person back then, and from what I read, even more so as an adult. My mother adored her and will now also welcome her with open arms.
My deepest condolences to her family.
Diana KlingleWilson says
Rebekah had such grace, gentle spirit, and a great sense of humor. I will smile when I remember her and I will remember her always.
Marjorie Endris Sawicki says
No words can provide the respite that you seek, but fond memories and passage of time will ease the pain. For her best friend Don; son – Noah; daughter – Sarah; and granddaughters Emma, Caroline and Isabella; may it help you to know that so many thought so highly of Rebekah. She was approachable, charming and compassionate.
My memories of Becky are from our high school days in Pana and class reunions. It is evident that she continued to build friendships and touched the hearts of many near and far. May she find endless peace and love.
Dawnell Barr says
Rebekah had this magical touch about her. She literally lit up a room with her presence. I only met her briefly on two different occassions, and she always had something unique to offer everyone. She will always live on in our hearts, for she is unforgettable!!!!! I will miss her!
Kenneth Horsthemke says
My sympathy to the family. When I worked at McCracken Funeral Home, all the kids were my favorite. God bless you all during this difficult time. Kenny
Bill Baker says
Mike,
So sorry to hear of the loss of your sister. Your family will be in our thoughts and prayers.
Sandy Firebaugh says
My Dear Rebekah,
“What made us friends in the long ago when first we met?
Well, I think I know;
The best in me and the best in you
Hailed each other because they knew
That always and always since life began
Our being friends was part of God’s plan.”
And what a wonderful friendship we had! I do remember the first time we met. It was over 30 years ago. For all those years there was never one harsh word spoken between us. You were always there with a quick “yes” response and a smile. Oh, how I miss that smile. It lit up any room you entered. Even though my heart is breaking, our memories will live forever.
Good Bye My Rebekah.
Lovingly,
Lecky King says
Mike,
I am so sorry to hear of your family’s loss. You are in my thoughts and prayers and know that the wonderful memories you have will sustain you through these times.
Love to you,
Lecky
Mike Sumner says
Mike McCracken and family: I am so sorry for your loss. Know that you are in our prayers. Mike & Lorraine
MJ Bailey says
Don–
My deepest sympathy.
MJ
Joyce S says
Dear Don,
I am sorry that I did not know this lovely woman better, and words cannot express the grief I feel for you and Rebekah’s family.
Joyce
Karen Nickell says
Don,
I only met her briefly at the Class Reunion last year and she was very lovely and personable. I’m very sorry for your loss.
Karen Nickell
Franklin and Emily Nowlin says
Franklin and I would like to extend our deepest sympathy to you and your family during this difficult time. Please know that you are in our thoughts and prayers. If we can do anything at all, please do not hesitate to reach out. Sending our love –
Ron Judy Forrest says
To all who love and cherish the memory of Rebekah please accept our sincere condolences in her passing.
SaraGene Tucker says
Don…We are so sorry to hear about Rebekah. Our condolences and deepest sympathy to you and her family.
Elizabeth Weers Jackson says
Rebekah and I were classmates at Pana High School, Class of ’71. I remember her as a very artistic person, and very nice to be around. My condolences to her family – – she will be truly missed.
Don Bogard says
Marcela–Rebekah has your picture in our home. Thanks for being her friend. don
Marcela Halvorsen says
Sarah, Noah, Don: I just find out about Rebakah’s passing and my heart is hurting so bad. I’m a friend of hers from Houston and have been in touch with Rebekah via aol and FB. I am so sorry to hear the news. I can’t believe it! May God give you peace in your hearts and streghth to go on. She was a lovely laday. I will miss her so much. My love to all of you.
Marcela
Marcela Halvorsen says
Don: Thanks for letting me know about the picture. I had forgotten she told me she had painted one picture of me. I have never seen it though. Sarah promised to take a picture of it next time she goes by your house and e-mail it to me. I’m keeping Tiffany and you in my prayers. God will give you the stregth you need to go thru all that he has in store for you. I love Rebekah. You can e-mail me at shalvors@aol.com
Marcela
Jan Barnaby says
Don – My heart really aches for you.