Rudy Roy Becker peacefully left this earth on January 15, 2014 following a courageous three year battle with cancer.
Rudy was born on October 31, 1950 to Art and Jeanette Becker. He grew up on the family farm north of Freeman near Silver Lake and was baptized at the Silver Lake Mennonite Church. After attending one year of country school, Rudy continued his education at Freeman Elementary and Freeman High School. He furthered his studies by completing two years at Freeman Junior College. Rudy married Rita Schrag on February 5, 1972 and they were blessed with two daughters, Kristi & Lori. They made their home north of Freeman for 41 years. Farming was his passion at an early age and continued until his health declined.
When Rudy wasn’t farming, he enjoyed all aspects of car racing – whether it be watching a NASCAR race, or racing his “Red Hot” Ford Fairlane at Thunder Valley. As the years went by, Rudy down shifted from racing fast cars to antique tractor pulling. We saw the softer side of Rudy when he spent time with his granddaughter, Maddie Rose, who he affectionately called “Punkie.” Whether it be riding around the farm on the John Deere gator or dipping Oreos at the kitchen table, Rudy treasured these moments.
Waiting to greet him in Heaven are his parents, Art & Jeanette, numberous aunts and uncles and a handful of close friends. He will be greatly missed by his loving wife, Rita of Marion, SD; daughters, Kristi Becker (boyfriend Ron Hughes) of Sioux Falls, SD, Lori (Joe) and granddaughter Madeline Rose Stanford of Dell Rapids, SD, and many other friends and family.
Any memorials, not otherwise designated, will be directed to Sanford Hospice – Freeman. Condolences may be left at www.walterfuneralhomes.org.