Rochelle

Betty Jane Fike passed away peacefully on December 21, 2015, at home, surrounded by her family following a brief illness. Betty was born in Palmyra Township, IL on September 15, 1932. Betty grew up in Dixon and met and married Ernest E. Fike there in 1950.


Betty and Ernie relocated to Rochelle in 1960 when Ernie began his school teaching career. Betty was the epitome of a homemaker, keeping a comfortable and warm home for her children, grandchildren, and even for the children of her friends when they needed care. Longtime friends describe her as elegant, classy, warm and fun. They also mention that she had a beautiful smile which she shared often and a great sense of humor.


Betty loved reading, traveling, playing cards and games and most of all, her family. She attended countless music and sporting events to support her children and grandchildren. In recent years, she spent many hours playing games, bingo, and attending movies with her friends, "the golden girls".


Betty is survived by her children: Brenda (Doc) Humphrey, Dixon, Steve (Janet) Fike, Kings, David Fike, Franklin Grove and Diana (Steve) Arntzen, Dixon/Rochelle. Betty was blessed to have nine grandchildren, 7 great grandchildren and three great-great grandchildren. She is also survived by four brothers: James (Grace) Sanford, Viola, WI, William (Vivian) Sanford, Rockford, Thomas (Linda) Sanford, Dixon and Wayne (Charlotte) Sanford, Kings. She was preceded in death by her infant son, Allen Lynn Fike, her parents, Fred and Lyla Sanford, husband, Ernest Fike, sister, Nancy Digby, and brothers: Fred Jr. and Robert Sanford.


A private burial was held on December 24, 2015. Memorial Celebration of Betty's life will be held at Faith Lutheran Church, Rochelle, IL, on Saturday, January 23, 2016. Gathering time is 10:00 with the service at 11:00. Memorials can be made to Faith Lutheran Church or to her family who plan to honor her through children's charities.