Obituary of Donald Carl Becker

BECKER, Donald C. of Saginaw, Michigan, passed away on Saturday, March 22, 2014 at his home with his family by his side. He was 78 years old. Donald Carl Becker was born on August 1, 1935 in Carrollton, to the late Charles Earl and Lillian I. (Owen) Becker. He proudly served his country in the U.S. Army from June 9, 1954 to his honorable discharge on March 30, 1956. Upon his return, he married the love of his life, Joyce Elaine Harmer on February 23, 1957; she survives him. Don was employed for many years as a used car-reconditioning manager at Draper Chevrolet on Michigan Ave. until the business relocated. He later began working for and retired from Martin Chevrolet as a shuttle driver. Don was a longtime member of Warren Avenue Presbyterian Church before attending First Christian Church West. As a young man, Don enjoyed playing baseball. He also enjoyed hunting, snowmobiling and going to the casino. He was an avid sports and NASCAR enthusiast, often cheering for the Detroit Redwings and Dale Earnhardt. Surviving are his beloved wife, Joyce E. Becker of Saginaw; two daughters and two sons: Linda (James) Loiacano of Saginaw, Don (Brenda) Becker of Freeland, Frank (Geri) Becker of Lake Michigan, and Joanne (Matt) Mazzola of Kendallville, IN; nine grandchildren; five great-grandchildren; four brothers and one sister; a sister-in-law and two brothers-in-law. Don is also survived by many nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by a mother-, father- and stepmother-in-law and two brothers-in-law. FUNERAL: A Funeral Service will take place at 11:00 a.m. on Wednesday, March 26, 2014 at the Deisler Funeral Home, 2233 Hemmeter Rd. (off State). Pastor Barbara Pratt will officiate. Military Honors under the auspices of American Legion Post #439 and entombment will follow in Oakwood Mausoleum. VISITATION: Friends are welcome to visit with the family on Tuesday from 10:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m. and on Wednesday from 10:00 a.m. until the time of the service. MEMORIALS: In lieu of flowers, those planning an expression of sympathy may wish to consider memorials to Reverence Home Health & Hospice or the American Cancer Association, 1480 W Center Rd., Ste. 1, Essexville, MI 48732. Please share your thoughts and memories with the family at the funeral home or through www.deislerfuneralhome.com.