John Becker, 88, of Elkhorn, Wisconsin, passed peacefully in the presence of family on Oct. 3, 2026. He was the son of Alice and John “Jack” Becker, Sr.; brother to Michael, David, George, Margaret and Bradley; father to Kathleen, Alicia, John, Anthony, Angela and Joseph; and grandfather to nine grandchildren. He was preceded in death by his parents, his wife Mary Alice, their son, Anthony, and brothers David and George.

True to the advice he gave his children, “Don’t let the grass grow between your toes,” John lived a life full of energy, purpose, and delightful curiosity.

From his youth, spent near Lake Erie in his native Elyria, Ohio, John was an athlete who excelled in basketball and football, setting school records as a running back his senior season. He also enjoyed making music as a singer and trombonist; he would later teach himself to play bass in order to earn a spot in a local band.

His devotion to God led him to consider the priesthood, and he attended seminary for a year before graduating from Elyria Catholic High School. After two years at John Carroll University, John enlisted in the U.S. Navy. He spent three years at sea, including service aboard the USS Capricornus during the Cuban Missile Crisis of 1962.

Following his honorable discharge in 1963, John moved to Milwaukee to attend engineering school at Marquette University. He met his sweetheart and future wife, Mary Alice, while signing up for the school band. They wed in 1966 and started a family when Katie was born in 1967. Thus began their greatest adventure: raising five children in Greendale, Wisconsin, and “enjoying the ride” together.

That ride continued as John and Mary Alice traveled across the country and around the world, from Europe to East Asia. They delighted in visiting their venturesome offspring wherever they were, always eager to learn more about their passions and pursuits.

From scouts and camping, to music, dance, theater and sports, John wanted to be there for everything. He was never one to miss a party or a unique escapade. Right until the end, he enjoyed car rides to take in the scenery, hopping aboard a vintage train or simply savoring a buttered ear of corn.

He was a “man on the move,” a quality that could simultaneously exasperate and excite. As one relative fondly recalled, “Uncle John’s smile could light up a room, and his deep, kind laugh was full of equal parts mischief and sunshine.”

John and Mary Alice raised their family with care and devotion, teaching respect, trust and love for God and people. John’s children knew how much he cared through his words, his presence and his enthusiasm for their accomplishments and passions. His guidance was gentle yet steady as they grew into adulthood.

Raising and supporting their children was a supreme joy, even in difficult times. Today, all five treasure countless stories, jokes, lessons and “Dad-isms” he shared or inspired throughout their lives.

Was he perfect? Nope.

But he was loved and appreciated beyond words.

In his “off time” from raising a family, John was an electrical engineer, enjoying a long and meaningful career that included Briggs & Stratton and Wisconsin Machine Tool Corp.

His last job was as a limousine driver, which allowed him to do two of his favorite things: drive and meet new people. His goal was not just to get passengers to their destination, but also to help them enjoy the ride. He delighted in getting people talking with a simple question or two. Even better, some took him up on his offer of a fully narrated tour of his beloved Milwaukee.

His family and friends knew his wry humor and playful teasing all too well. He brought people together through conversation, games and fun. Music was John’s constant companion, whether listening, singing or just humming a tune. He sang in numerous local choirs, including the Felix Chorale and later Bel Canto in Milwaukee.

For decades, Mom and Dad sang together in church choirs. John, the strong bass; Mary Alice, the soaring soprano. Love of music was their common bond from day one. 

As Mom slowed down, Dad lovingly took her to choir so she could keep singing as long as she could. When she moved into memory care, he visited weekly. For five years, they snuggled close and joyfully harmonized, singing familiar melodies. 

Even as her memory faded, Mom always recognized Dad’s reassuring voice. She passed two years ago, and it is a blessing they are now reunited.

John’s enthusiasm for life inspired those around him to enjoy the ride. He will be deeply missed, but his laughter, curiosity and steady love will stay with us.

A visitation will be held on October 13, 2026 at St. Alphonsus Parish, 6060 W. Loomis Rd., from 9:30 AM to 11:00 AM with a Mass of Christian Burial at 11:00 AM.  

Burial will be on October 16, 2026 at 9:00 AM at Southern Wisconsin Veterans Memorial Cemetery, 21731 Spring Street, Union Grove.  We will meet outside the cemetery office at 8:45 AM.

In lieu of flowers, those wishing to honor Dad’s memory may consider a gift to Hillsdale College or to Bel Canto Chorus in celebration of his lifelong love of learning and music.