Raymond J. Becker, 102, Lincoln, died Tuesday (2-19-08). Born in Grand Island, NE (12-7-1905) to Emmanuel and Elizabetha (Schachterly) Becker, the youngest of five children; Emma, Edward, Otto and Alma.
A graduate of Sutton High School and Grand Island Business College. Ray devoted 44 years to the banking industry, retiring in December 1970 as Vice-President of First National Bank’s credit and commercial loan department, a position he held since 1946.
Ray’s professional, civic, social and religious affiliations include the Nebraska Banker’s Association; Robert Morris Associates (President of the Seven State Missouri Valley Chapter in 1965); Sertoma Club (President 1938, 1939); Cedar’s Home for Children (Treasurer from 1948 through 1992 and subsequently a member of the Board of Directors); Hillcrest Country Club, (Club Sweepstakes Champion in 1954); The Lincoln Country Club; and Christ Lutheran Church. Ray also loved his Nebraska Cornhuskers and never missed a home game while his health enabled him to attend.
Ray was married to Sue Mutchie in 1928. A son Robert, was born in December of that year. After raising a family of five with his wife, Phyllis (Weaver), and a lengthy career in the shoe manufacturing business, Robert passed away in 1987. Ray married Sue Marie Scott in 1940 and Doris Schult Gudmunson in May 1990. Ray was surrounded by a wide circle of friends, many of whom helped him celebrate his 90th, 95th, and 100th birthdays with large celebrations. In December 2007, at the age of 102, Ray received an honorary degree from Concordia University in Seward, Nebraska. Concordia was an institution that Ray befriended and held in very high regard. Concordia’s President, Brian Friedrich, once introduced Ray as “Concordia’s Best Friend”.
Survivors include five grandchildren: Leslie Bower, Batavia, IL; Pam Stetter, Hayward, CA; Steve Becker, Del Ray Beach, FL; Bob Becker, Green Bay, WI; Scott Becker, Moon Township, PA; and 6 great-grandchildren.
Funeral Service: 9:00 a.m. Saturday (2-23-08) Christ Lutheran Church, 4325 Sumner St. Rev. Dr. Brian Friedrich officiating.
Visitation: 5:00 p.m. Thursday at Roper & Sons, 4300 ‘O’ Street and one hour prior to service time at the Church.
Memorials to Concordia University, 800 N. Columbia Ave., Seward, NE 68434.