Charles Philip Becker III, Age 94
Charles “Charlie” Becker passed away peacefully in his home on December 13, 2021, with his five children by his side. He was preceded in death by his loving wife of 63 years, Thelma Ruth Becker ( Shay ) . Charles is survived by his five children; Linda M. Zimmerman (husband Fred), KCK; Susan L. Vaughan, KCMO; Greg Becker, Lenexa KS; Donna L. Bryan (husband Rick), Basehor KS; Edward C. Becker, KCMO; 15 grandchildren, 13 great grandchildren, and his sister, Margaret Humble, Shawnee KS.
Charlie was born in KC, MO, on April 6,1927. After an eventful young life, he met the love of his life, Thelma Ruth Shay, at the Play-Mor Ice Palace. They were both great skaters, but because he was so talented, Thelma would pretend to be tired after just a short time to watch him skate alone. During these early days, they both found the love that drew them towards marriage and a long life together. They were married on December 27, 1947.
Charlie worked as a cable repairman for Southwestern Bell Telephone Company until his retirement at age 60. During his 39 years of service, Charlie often worked long hours during the worst weather conditions helping customers maintain telephone communication. He won numerous awards for service and was once honored for 20 years without a sick day. While working full time, Charlie built the family home at nights and on weekends. The house was completed in 1960 and remained the family home for the next 61 years.
As a young man, Charlie had a passion for hunting. He enjoyed being out in nature with close friends and watching a good hunting dog work a field. Most of his hunting days were spent walking fields and draws hunting for pheasant and quail. Charlie was a safe hunter, respectful of nature and a great teacher for those that followed.
His family remembers his many special talents, qualities, and hobbies. Charlie could fix anything in the house, repair anything on cars and pretty much build anything! He was a meticulous woodworker and skilled at making exquisite furniture, clocks, picture frames, jewelry boxes for his granddaughters and so many other treasured items. He was an avid KC Chiefs fan, especially when they won! He was an all-time sports fan when his kids, grandkids or great grandkids were playing a sport. He loved the “old” country banjo music, John Wayne movies and Gunsmoke. He could pretty much recite all the lines from watching those favorite shows repeatedly!
As time progressed, and children were raised, Charlie and Thelma traveled frequently to Arizona, Colorado, Branson, Missouri, and many parts of the US. They spent many hours together driving through the country enjoying sites along the way.
Over the years there were many great friendships and great neighbors, and after retirement, a special group of friends evolved from his daily visits to Hardees, that we affectionately called “The Hardy Boys.” With over a decade of stories, characters and friendships, the Hardee’s crew became a significant part of Charlie’s life.
Most of all, Charlie was a wonderful, devoted husband, Dad, grandfather, and great grandfather. Always there when needed, always understanding, patient and kind. He will
be dearly missed by all his family, friends and neighbors.
Charles was a member of St. Patrick’s Catholic Church since moving to the parish in 1960.
The Visitation for family to receive friends will be at 9:00 a.m., Monday, December 20, 2021, at St. Patrick’s Catholic Church, 94th and State Avenue, KCK. Mass will follow at 10:00 a.m. The Catholic Burial at Gate of Heaven Cemetery, KCK to follow the service.
In lieu of flowers, the family suggests memorial contributions to Disabled American Veterans or Three Oaks Hospice, 10500 Barkley Street, Suite 228, Overland Park, KS 66212