October 19, 1930 – October 1, 2021
It is with heavy hearts and much sadness that we announce the passing of our Father, Grandfather and Great Grandfather, Donald John Becker.
Donald was born in Banff on Oct 19, 1930 - the first son to Vera (Tollington) and Charles Becker. The family, now complete with another son, Gordon, moved to Olds in 1934 after they purchased The College Pharmacy. The College Pharmacy later became Becker Drugs Ltd. and was operated by Donald until 1973.
Donald led a very active sports life both in and out of school. He loved the competition and camaraderie of sports, especially hockey, baseball, track and field and skiing. Donald also loved fishing and being out in nature whether it was riding on the air boat, driving his jeep or camping. Donald was an entrepreneur at heart even from his early years. He hauled coal for 3 huge houses, watered horses, raised pigs and made stook bundles for local farmers.
Donald met his future bride, Marianne MacKinnon when her family moved to Olds in the mid 1940’s. They were married August 11, 1954. He and Marianne worked hard in developing large portions of Olds. Donald was a founding member of the Olds Kiwanis, a 60-year member of the Masonic Lodge and a lifetime member of the Olds United Church. Donald was a loving, caring, and generous man who loved to play and to spend time with his family.
He will be lovingly remembered by his children, David, Stuart (Sandra) and Linda, his grandchildren, Matt (Lauren) Becker, Eric Becker, Jill (Tyler) Zoopkow, Steven (Rayna) Becker, Jennifer (Mark) Hillier, and Kayla Fitzgerald. He is also survived by his Great Grandchildren, Blaicen and Caidence Henwood, Sophia and Jameson Zoopkow, Aria Becker and Madelyn Hillier.
Donald was predeceased by his younger brother, Gordon Becker in 2019. A Celebration of Life will be held at a later date. In lieu of flowers, memorial tributes may be made directly to the Ronald MacDonald House. Heartland Funeral Services Ltd., Olds entrusted arrangements. 403-507-8610 Condolences may be made or viewed at www.heartlandfuneralservices.com
