Vicki Lynn Oehlke

Vicki Lynn Oehlke, beloved wife, mother, grandmother, and friend, passed away peacefully at her home in Devils Lake, ND on September 4, 2023. She was born on February 24, 1949, at Mercy Hospital in Devils Lake to Arthur and Doris (Peterson) Staren.
A lifelong learner herself, Vicki embraced education as a means of growth. She graduated from Devils Lake High School in 1967 before attending the Professional Business Institute (PBI) Minneapolis to become a certified Medical Technician. Later in life, she obtained a Bachelor's Degree in Psychology from UND in Grand Forks, ND in 2001. Vicki pursued further education and earned a Master's Degree in Business from the University of Mary in Bismarck, ND.

Vicki's journey in her professional life was diverse and impactful. She began her career as a Medical Technician at Valley Vet Clinic in Fargo, ND from 1968 to 1970. Following this role, she worked as a Teller at 1st National Bank in Moorhead, MN between 1970 and 1972. Eventually, Vicki found her calling in the world of real estate and became a highly respected Real Estate Broker. She started with Felchle Real Estate and went on to become the owner of Oehlke Investment Properties.

Aside from her successful career as a real estate broker, Vicki also embarked on an exciting entrepreneurial journey as a partner and owner of Willow Berry Lane. Through her fabric and quilt design business, she met countless interesting people who shared her love for quilting. She found solace in quilting, quilt design, and knitting. Her creative spirit knew no bounds, and she poured love, dedication, and patience into every stitch. Vicki's quilts will forever remain a testament to her artistry and the countless hours she spent bringing warmth and beauty into the lives of others.
 
Later in her career, Vicki dedicated herself to serving others as the Career Services Director for Cankdeska Cikana Community College from Fort Totten, ND. In addition to her professional achievements, Vicki attained the prestigious title of Master Grad from Rapport Leadership International in Las Vegas, NV and held a Strength Coaching Certificate. Furthermore, she was a Certified Life Coach, utilizing her knowledge and empathy to support and uplift others. Vicki also gave back to her community by serving on the Fort Totten Little Theatre Board of Directors after having starred in “The Music Man” nearly 40 years earlier. She was a member of the Lake Region Search and Rescue Team, having served as the Team’s President. Vicki's passion for quilting led her to become an active member of the Lake Region Quilters Guild.

Vicki's love of family was unparalleled. Her marriage to David Oehlke on May 2, 1970 brought immeasurable joy to both their lives. Dave was her rock, providing unwavering support throughout their journey together. Vicki was a devoted mother to Carren (Chris) Leevers of Castle Rock, CO, and Jeb Oehlke of Devils Lake. As a grandmother, she cherished precious moments spent with Lexi Leevers (Martin) Thomas, Lachlan Leevers, Spencer Leevers, Tatum Leevers; great-grandchildren Naomi and Monroe Thomas, Lachlan Leevers Jr. Vicki deeply cherished these relationships and leaves behind a legacy of love that will be carried on through generations. She is also survived by her beloved sister Laurie (Greg) Lange of Bismarck, sister-in-law Mary Oehlke, Devils Lake and several precious nieces, nephews and their families. 
She was preceded in death by her parents, in-laws Herman and Emma (Rusten) Oehlke and brother-in-law Bill Oehlke. 

Vicki Lynn Oehlke will forever be remembered for her unwavering dedication to both her family and community, her thirst for knowledge, and her love of creativity through quilting and knitting. 
In times of hardship, Vicki faced adversity with courage and strength. She battled cancer for many years but never let it dampen her spirit or diminish her love for life. Surrounded by her beloved family during her final moments on earth, Vicki left this world with dignity and grace. Though she may no longer walk beside us, her spirit will live on in our hearts.  Rest in peace, dear Vicki. You will be deeply missed.
Memorials may be given in Vicki’s memory to Lake Region Community College Foundation, Lake Region Heritage Center, St. Olaf Lutheran Church, or to a non-profit of your choice. 

Gathering of family and friends will be held on Monday, September 11, 2023 at the Gilbertson Funeral Home, Devils Lake from 5:00 p.m. until 7:00 p.m. with a time of prayer and remembrance at 7:00 p.m. Vicki's life will be celebrated at a funeral service on Tuesday, September 12th at 11:00 a.m. at St. Olaf Lutheran Church, Devils Lake with Reverend Lori Pankratz officiating. Burial will be in the Devils Lake Cemetery.