In Loving Memory of a Beautiful Life

Rebecca "Becky" Lynne Bailey, daughter of William "Bill" and Maxine "Midge" (Johnson) Bailey, was born August 12, 1957, in Fort Dodge, IA, at Lutheran Hospital.

Becky grew up in Eagle Grove, IA, graduating from Eagle Grove High School in 1975.

She moved to Chicago and began her career with J. Walter Thompson Advertising Agency where she met her husband, George Kotalik. They were united in marriage and were devoted parents to their three wonderful children.

The family relocated to Wisconsin. Those that met Becky were in awe of her strength of spirit, raising her family, a community volunteer, and was employed by numerous families to care for their young children. She connected easily with those around her and had a way of making every moment feel special. Time spent with her always passed too quickly, filled with her smart and witty sense of humor and her infectious laugh.

It was Rebecca’s greatest ambition to become a mother. She felt she achieved more than she thought possible having one, two, and three children, for which to enjoy and celebrate life. Through her life she became a resourceful problem solver, artist, musician, cook, and mechanic. She strived to be totally independent, someone that didn’t let anything get in her way to achieve goals or obstacles. She was truly unstoppable in life when she knew something was important.

Becky found joy in nurturing, love was her wealth and had wonder in the creative arts, using those gifts for the many children in her care.

After retiring, Becky pursued her great joys in art, spending time in nature, and her family. Her hometown of Eagle Grove always held a special vitality in her heart, rejoicing in her siblings as well as their loved ones.

Rebecca Bailey, beloved wife, adored mother, treasured family member, and compassionate friend, passed away on Sunday, June 21st, at the age of 68, due to heart failure from complications with a battle of esophageal cancer.

She had a beautiful gift for spreading joy and kindness to everyone in her life. Through thoughtful actions, comforting words, and her natural grace and empathy, she made people feel seen, understood, and deeply loved.

Becky is survived by her loving husband, George; sons, Graham (Nick Abbott) of Milwaukee, WI, and Garret of Madison, WI; daughter, Paige of Saukville, WI; mother, Midge Bailey of Eagle Grove; sisters: Barb Bailey (Paula Miller) of Colorado, Denise Reed (Denny) of Eagle Grove, Emily Moffitt (Alan) of South Dakota, and Billie Weland (Mitch) of Eagle Grove; along with many beloved nieces and nephews and their families. Preceded in death by her father, Bill Bailey; and in-laws, Dr. George and Gretchen Kotalik.