Racine – Thomas S. Becker, 73, received the promise of eternal life on Friday, April 6, 2012. He passed away peacefully with his loving family by his side. He was born in Racine on January 6, 1939, son of the late John and Valerie (nee: Hart) Becker.
Tom was united in marriage on August 5, 1961 in Lakehurst, NJ, to Janet (nee: Stover) Becker. She preceded Tom in death on December 16, 1994.
Tom attended St. Catherine’s High School in Racine. Following high school, Tom honorably and faithfully served his country with the United States Navy during Vietnam. He received his high school diploma from the United States Armed Forces Institute while on active duty. Tom was a member of the first crew to sail the USS Enterprise, the world’s first nuclear powered aircraft carrier. On January 12, 1962, the ship made her maiden voyage conducting a three-month shakedown cruise and a lengthy series of tests and training exercises. After returning to Racine, Tom was employed at In-Sink-Erator for over 25 years and was fortunate to develop long lasting friendships.
Tom was a member of the American Legion and the VFW Post 1391. He was an avid Wisconsin sports fan and loved watching all of his favorite teams, especially the Packers and the Brewers. Tom also was a NASCAR fan and enjoyed going to the races and watching them with his buddies. Above all, Tom was a family man and treasured the time spent with his entire family. He was extremely proud of his children and grandchildren. He will be dearly missed by all who knew and loved him.
Tom leaves to cherish his memory, his children, Patricia (Kip) Gustavson , Thomas (Jane) Becker, Kathleen Becker, Tracy (Cory) Nelson, all of Racine; grandchildren, Quinton Gustavson, Ashley Becker, Jacob Gustavson, Kelley Becker, Matthew Nelson, Luke Nelson; sister, Joan (Al) Harwell; brothers, David (Marlene) Becker, Richard (Charlotte) Becker, John (Marlene) Becker; brother-in-law, Stephen Stover; his favorite feline companion, Ashes; and other relatives and dear friends too numerous to mention.
Visitation will be on Wednesday, April 11, 2012, 4pm until 7pm, and again on Thursday, April 12, 11am until noon, at Draeger-Langendorf Funeral Home and Crematory, 4600 County Line Road. The funeral service will take place at the funeral home on Thursday, April 12, 12pm, with Rev. Mark R. Jones officiating. Entombment with full military honors will follow the service at West Lawn Memorial Park. The family has suggested memorials to the American Parkinson’s Disease Association (APDA).
The family wishes to extend a special thank you to Dr. David Kelley and ICU nurses Katie and Nancy for their exceptional and compassionate care.
Tracy says