Donald Francis Becker
Donald Francis Becker, 92, Labadie, passed away peacefully Wednesday, September 7, 2022, at his home, surrounded by his loving family. He was born December 31, 1929 to Annie (Walter) and Francis Becker. Donald grew up on the family farm in Labadie. He attended Labadie Elementary and graduated from Washington High School in 1947. In 1949, Donald married his high school sweetheart, Dorothy (Meyer) Becker. Two children, Dean and Debbie were born before Dorothy’s death in 1961. He was united in marriage to his wife of 57 years, Norma Jean (Steffens) Becker, in 1964 having one daughter, Sally, together. Donald lived a life of service. He proudly served his country in the U.S. Marine Corps during the Korean War, from 1951-53. After the war, Donald and his young family returned to the family farm, where he farmed for the rest of his life. Donald served the farming community as a longtime member of the MFA Board of Directors. For over 50 years, he served his community as a volunteer firefighter, fire chief, and fire marshal with the Boles Volunteer Fire Protection District. He used his knowledge of firefighting to teach firefighting seminars at ECC for many years. Donald loved to play and watch sports. He played softball and basketball and ran track throughout high school, and in his senior year he won the state championship in the 880 yard event at the Missouri State Indoor Track Meet. Donald was a St. Louis Browns and Cardinals fan, and he loved to watch Mizzou sports, especially football games, which he attended for years with family. Preceded in death by his parents Annie and Francis, two brothers, Walter and Marvin, Dean and Debbie’s mother Dorothy, a daughter-in-law Renee (Westhoff) Becker, and grandson Jesse Becker. Donald is survived by his wife Norma Jean, one son Dean, two daughters Debbie (Scott Luecker) and Sally (Steve Hollis), grandsons Nathan Bowen (Lori), Hank (McKenzie), and Gus, great grandchildren Nick and Cheyanna Bowen, and many beloved family members and friends. We will all miss Donald dearly, but we will always cherish our memories of his incredible work ethic, spirit of service, gift of story and joke telling, love of food and amateur food critiquing, and the twinkle in his eye. May he share an endless supply of ice cream and chocolate pie with the great spirit in the sky. Visitation will be held on Sunday, September 11, 2022 from 3-7 p.m. at Nieburg-Vitt, Miller Funeral Home. Funeral service will begin at 11 a.m. on Monday, September 12, 2022 at the Pilgrim U.C.C. in Labadie. Interment, with full military honors will be at the Bethel Cemetery in Labadie. Memorial donations can be made to the American Cancer Society.