Yvonne Babutzke

Yvonne Babutzke, 82, of O'Neill, died Thursday, July 31, 2025.

Visitation will be held from 5-7 p.m. on Friday, Aug. 15, 2025 at Biglin's Mortuary in O'Neill.

A celebration of life service will be held at 7 p.m. on Friday, Aug. 15, 2025 at the mortuary in O'Neill.

Memorials may be made to the family for future designation.

It is with deep sorrow that we announce the passing of Yvonne Babutzke, whose sudden illness and passing on July 31, 2025, has left her family and friends in shock from the loss.  Yvonne was a beloved member of our community, known for her kindness, generosity and unwavering spirit.   

Born May 10, 1943, in Valentine to Shorty Lee Steele (taken name), also known as Paul Edward Johnson (adopted name) also known as Robert Holcomb (birth name) and Norma Steele. Yvonne grew up in O'Neill where she was affectionately nicknamed” Gabby” then “Vonnie.”

On Jan. 7, 1960, Yvonne married Leo Babutzke in O'Neill. Together they built a life on their farm outside of town and raised three children Mike, Kim and Leo Jr. After Leo's passing in 2000, Yvonne continued to run the family farm, taking on the role of CEO of Babutzke Farms LLC. She also worked as a proctor for GED students at Northeast Community College, where she supported adult learners on their educational journeys.

Yvonne had a rich and joyful life. She played clarinet in high school, loved polka dancing and was always up for a good game or family gathering. She loved playing Hand and Foot with everyone she could, grands and kids and her sister-in-law Mary. We also played Mexican Train dominoes and Spinners. It was never a dull moment in her loving house. We were all competitive and determined to win. What a great time we all had. We also played pitch and were teaching Sean, her great-grandson, to shuffle the cards. Her home was a cherished meeting place, known for waffles and “goop,” and filled with laughter, comfort and open arms. Friends and extended family alike often called her “Mom” or “Grandma” a testament to her welcoming nature and nurturing heart.

Yvonne was a devoted Christian; she used to attend Christian Women's Club when it was a thing in O'Neill. She was a great sister, mother, grandmother and friend. She lived her life in service to others, always putting their needs before her own. Her warm smile and gentle presence left a lasting impression on all who knew her.

  Yvonne's memory will live on in the hearts of all who knew and loved her. She will be deeply missed but never forgotten.

Yvonne is survived by her sister Rita (Terry) Klein; her three children, Mike (Patty) Babutzke, Kim Prather and Leo (Stephanie) Babutzke Jr.; her seven grandchildren Amber (Chris) Babutzke, Jamie Babutzke, Heather Anderson, Holly (Colby) Arndt, April Babutzke, Nathan (Erin) Babutzke and Jason (Amanda) Babutzke; her 10 great-grandchildren Haleigh, Tyler, Aliyha, Shane, Tucker, Sean, Autumn, Nick, Ryan and Mavrix; and many nieces and nephews who will forever cherish her memory.

She was preceded in death by her parents, her husband Leo, two brothers Evan Steele and Emerson Steele, one grandson Austin Babutzke and one grandson in-law Luke Anderson who she is now reunited with.