Rebecca "Becca" Marie Lueke

What makes a woman remarkable? Passion, love, and loyalty. Rebecca “Becca” Marie Lueke (18), a passionate, kind-hearted individual, with beautiful loyalty to her family, friends, and dreams, passed away on Monday, December 9, 2013, in an automobile accident. She leaves behind countless friends and family members, including parents, Donald A. Lueke and Debra Anne Marie Bradley Lueke, and her six siblings, Allie (22), Maddie (20), Eleanor (16), Nathaniel (14), Michael (11), and William (4). They were incredibly blessed to have such a wonderful addition to their family and know that she will always be with them.

Becca, a driven student, talented athlete, compassionate sister, and friend touched the lives of many. She attended St. Teresa’s Academy, graduated in May of 2013, and was a freshman at Benedictine College. In her time at St. Teresa’s Academy, Becca reached her full potential and grew into the confident young woman whom all adored. She was a role model, a friend, a sister, and a supporter. She thrived spiritually, academically, athletically, and personally through the many opportunities she was granted at STA. Becca loved laughing, living, and serving others. She enjoyed her volunteer experience at The Children’s Place and loved being able to support and care for the children utilizing their services. She was always excited about learning and discovering something new. Her extracurricular activities brought her much joy and helped establish her incredible work ethic and admirable leadership skills. A four-year varsity basketball player, she led her team to the district championship in the spring of 2013 and was elected team captain her senior year. Nothing brought her grandparents, family, and friends greater joy than watching her excel both on and off the court. She was also the president of the Care Club and a leader among her peers. She looked forward to pep-rallies, theme Fridays, Lueke Family Road Trips, and her family’s Finding Big Foot viewings on Sunday nights.

Faith is something Becca always had and always will carry with her. Her faith in God, her parents, siblings, family, friends, and humanity helped her maintain a positive demeanor. Becca loved to laugh and never took life too seriously. With her unique sense of humor, she really knew how to light up a room. She taught those fortunate enough to know her how to make the most out of any situation. She always kept her head up and embraced the wise words of her mother, constantly remembering that “the best is yet to come.” In this trying time, Becca would have wanted all to celebrate her life while embracing the many blessings God grants. Because of this, the family requests that all donations give back to the communities she loved and supported with her whole heart: St. Teresa’s Academy, Visitation School, and The Children’s Place.

Becca was a selfless young woman who always wanted to give. She wanted to give to her family, to her friends, and to her community; basically, she gave everything she could to anyone in need. Considering this, the family decided to donate Becca’s organs to help save the lives of others. Her heart was used to save two individuals on Monday night and the rest of her gifts will be used to help countless individuals improve their quality of life. Becca’s physical passing is bringing life and hope to other families. This is something to appreciate and celebrate.

Mass of Christian Burial will be held Saturday, December 14th, 10:00 a.m., at Visitation Church, 5141 Main Street, Kansas City, MO, her family’s parish community, with burial following in Mt. Olivet Cemetery. A Prayer Service will be held Friday, December 13th, at 5:00 p.m., with a Visitation following to 8:00 p.m., at St. Teresa’s Academy in the Goppert Center, 5600 Main Street, Kansas City, MO, to celebrate Becca’s life and accomplishments.

Her love for pancakes, conspiracy theories, chocolate milk, basketball, Sleeping Beauty, and most importantly her family and friends, will never be forgotten. Becca Bear’s spirit will always be with those who loved her. “The best and most beautiful things in the world cannot be seen or even touched-they must be felt in the heart.”