He was born on September 14, 1934, in Springfield, the son of Henry G. and Marietta V. (Davis) Becker. William married Karen S. Redpath on July 16, 1979, in Springfield.
William earned his bachelor’s degree from Southern Illinois University. He proudly served his country in the U.S. Air Force, from 1952-1956. William went on to work for Western Electric Co. and retired from the IL State Board of Education in 1994. He was co-coordinator with Karen, for Friend-in-Need and they also co-coordinated the mayoral campaign for Tim Davlin. William enjoyed helping others and cared deeply for people.
He was preceded in death by his parents; son, Jeffrey Becker; sister, Louann T. Pitman; and brothers, Henry G. “Bud” Becker and Fr. Robert T. Becker; and a son-in-law, Jeffrey Harper.
William is survived by his wife, Karen S. Becker of Springfield; daughter, Diane C. Harper of Romeoville; sons, Brad (Sharon) Becker of Springfield and David Becker of Las Vegas, NV; grandchildren, Justin, Ryan, and Adam Becker, Judy Orielly, Katie Harper, and Cheyenne Hoover; siblings, John “Barry” (Pat) Becker and Lynne M. (Court) Dickason; five great-grandchildren; and numerous nieces, nephews, and cousins.
Visitation and Funeral Ceremony: Family will receive friends from 10:00 to 10:45 am on Tuesday, April 16, 2024 at Butler Funeral Home – Springfield, 900 S. 6th St., Springfield, followed by a Ceremony at 11:00 am with Fr. George Nellikunnel, S.A.C. officiating. Burial will follow at Camp Butler National Cemetery.
Memorial contributions may be made to: Sangamon County Interveterans Burial Detail.