Becker, George J.

George J. Becker, 93, of Watkins, died Saturday, Jan. 2, 2010, at the Dennis and Donna Oldorf Hospice House of Mercy, Hiawatha, following an extended illness.

Born Nov. 18, 1916, in rural Watkins, he was the oldest child of John C. and Anna Becker, and spent his life as a farmer in the Watkins area. He served on the board of directors of the Watkins Savings Bank for many years and was a member of St. Patrick's Church in Watkins.

Survivors include his wife, Bernice; sons, James (Sue) of Newhall and Thomas (Amy) of Watkins; and daughter, Glenice (Gary) Peck of Clive. He is also survived by his siblings, Ida Mae Houser and Sister Mary Ann Becker of Cedar Rapids, Hazel Schulte of Walford and Sister Marlys Becker of Sioux City. There are nine grandchildren and 11 great-grandchildren in the extended family.

He was preceded in death by his parents; brothers, Louis and Wilbert; and sister, Helen Oberreuter Boddicker. He was also preceded in death by a daughter and son-in-law, Beverly and Herbert Kearns; grandson, Roger Kearns; and granddaughter, Gwendolyn Rumbo.

Visitation will be held at St. Patrick's Church in Watkins on Monday, Jan. 4, from 3 to 7 p.m. Vigil services will be conducted at 7 p.m. at the conclusion of the visitation. A mass of Christian burial will be Tuesday at 10 a.m., with Father Jack McClure C.PP.S. officiating. Burial will be at St. Patrick and St. Paul Cemetery near Watkins.

Memorials may be directed to the Dennis and Donna Oldorf Hospice House of Mercy in George's name at: 315 18th Ave., Hiawatha, IA 52233.

Arrangements are Brosh Funeral Service, Norway.