Rebecca Mercedes Knoeck, 80, a nine-year resident of Oak Harbor, died at Whidbey Island Manor on May 9, 2002.

Mrs. Knoeck was born in Jerome, Ariz., on Nov. 28, 1921, to Antonio Garcia and Erlinda (Carreon) Garcia. As a young child, she moved with her family to San Bernardino, Calif., where she attended schools and graduated from high school. She lived in the San Bernardino area for many years, residing in Rialto and Lake Arrowhead, as well as San Bernardino. She also lived in Redwood City, Calif., from 1947 to 1956. She married Max Knoeck and they resided in Whitewater, Calif., near Palm Springs. She moved to Oak Harbor in May 1993. Rebecca was a gifted artist, especially enjoying chalk drawing. She is survived by 12 children: Alfred Aburto of San Diego, Dave Aburto, Vikki Pereira and Jacquelyn Marshall, all of Oak Harbor, Cindy Webber of Ontario, Calif., Teresa and Liz Aburto, both of California, Robin Aburto of Washington state, Jim Aburto and Rebecca Miller, both of Utah, and Linda Aburto and Sam Aburto; 21 grandchildren; 11 great-grandchildren; sister Rachel Dold of San Francisco; also, many nieces and nephews. She was preceded in death by her husband in 1997 and by her brothers and sisters.

Visitation was May 12 at Burley Funeral Chapel. Recitation of the Rosary was May 13 at St. Augustine’s Catholic Church, Oak Harbor, followed by Funeral Mass, Rev. John J. O’Leary, S.J., Celebrant. Inurnment will be private. Arrangements and cremation under direction of Burley Funeral Chapel.