Joseph Becker

Joseph B. Becker, 84, of rural Lansing was surrounded by his loving family when he died Wednesday, April 30, 2014 at his home, not 50 feet from where he was born August 6, 1929 to John H. and Mary (Hammell) Becker.
Mass of Christian Burial was held Monday, May 5 at Immaculate Conception Catholic Church, Lansing, with Rev. John Moser as the Celebrant. Burial followed at Gethsemane Cemetery, Lansing.
Joseph attended country school in Churchtown for a time and graduated from Immaculate Conception High School in Lansing.
Joseph was united in marriage with Kathleen Mauss May 17, 1950 at St. Mary-Lycurgus. Nine children were born to this union. After nearly 46 years of marriage, Kathleen passed away April 16, 1996. Joseph was later united in marriage to Dorothy Kurth Peterson September 28, 2002 at Norway Lutheran Church.
Joseph farmed his entire life while also working at Calhoun Creamery in Churchtown for 22 years, and earlier for Dale Robey Construction. Though the farm, which was homesteaded by his ancestors, was his passion, he also enjoyed fishing, country music, dancing, eating out, bird watching and playing cards.  He always had dogs on the farm and each one was special to him. He especially enjoyed spending time with his family and had a smile for everyone. His hearty laugh will be remembered by all.
Joseph is survived by his wife, Dorothy; eight children, Mary Kay (Roger) Colsch of New Albin, Joanie Kramer of Gillette, WY, Jeanne (John) Colsch of Hokah, MN, Kevin (Sandy) Becker of Harpers Ferry, Ken (Denise) Becker of Lansing, Joe (Kristin) Becker of Charles City, Dan (Keri) Becker of New Albin  and Cullen (Denise) Becker of Lansing; 35 grandchildren; 44 great-grandchildren; and one great-great-grandchild.  Joe is also survived by Dorothy’s children, Allen (Julie) Peterson of La Crescent, MN, Darlene (Carl) Wood of Strawberry Point, Darrell Peterson of Cedar Rapids, Dennis Peterson of Cedar Rapids and Julie (fiancé Dana Richard) Peterson of Garnavillo; her 12 grandchildren; and seven great-grandchildren. He is survived also by one sister, Ursula Quanrude of Waukon; and many extended family and friends.
Joseph was preceded in death by his first wife, Kathleen; his parents; a son, Larry Joseph, in infancy; along with his sisters, Ann Zoll, Elizabeth “Liz” Burroughs and Theresa McCabe; and his brothers, Aloysius “Allie” Becker and George Becker.
Thornburg - Grau Funeral Home of Lansing assisted the family with arrangements.