On Thursday, July 11, 2019, Rebecca (Becky) Travis left this world after suffering a heart attack at the age of 49. Though her family, friends and community remain shattered with disbelief, they are also heartened and bound together by the love and joy she spread so effortlessly to one and all.
Becky was born on April 14, 1970, in Grand Rapids, MI to Gay and Duane Travis, and spent most of her youth growing up in Kingsley, MI, along with, brother, Ben Travis. She earned her BA in English Literature from the University of Michigan in 1992 and worked for many years at Horizon Books and then Cali’s, both of Traverse City, MI, where she shared her loves of literature and fashion. Ultimately, she found her vocation as Program Coordinator of the Elk Rapids District Library where she built community and continued to touch the lives of so many.
On July 27, 1997, she married Mason Showalter and together, in true partnership, they built a foundation of love and security for their beloved son, Wallace, born January 19, 2012.
Becky is survived by her husband, Mason Showalter; son, Wallace Showalter; parents, Gay and Duane Travis; brother, Ben Travis (Laura); nephew, Mitchell Travis; father-in-law, Joe Showalter; brother-in-law, Morgan Showalter (Sia); neices, Maria and Elia Showalter; dear friend Wendy Kalush; many aunts, uncles, cousins, friends and all of you.
The things Becky loved and valued most are embodied in her shared experiences with each of you and which we invite and encourage you to share.
A memorial and celebration of the vibrant life of Becky Travis will be held on Friday, July 19, 2019, at the Jack Blesma Pavilion, Elk Rapids, starting at 5 PM with a brief program of speakers beginning at 6 PM, followed by the opportunity for all to share memories of Becky. Parking is not allowed in the Harbor lot without permit so please seek out the library parking lot, the overflow lots between the Elk River and Noble Street, or throughout our village. Please consider reserving nearby parking for the elderly.
In lieu of flowers, please consider doing one or more of the following Becky-recommended activities: swim whenever possible, as long as possible; ride a bike; walk your child to school in any weather; eat a rainbow; make a difference in your community; read aloud to someone of any age; dress to express the inner you outwardly; plant something for the pollinators; strive to understand others from their own point of view; embrace adventure; counter injustice with caring; fold a paper crane; pick up five pieces of trash every time you go to the beach; contribute to the Elk Rapids Library Capital Campaign; smile from your heart and actualize your dreams. She did all of these things and so can we.
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