Rear Admiral Richard Becker

Rear Admiral Richard Lee Becker passed away on July 23, 2024 in Holland, Michigan at the age of 81. He is survived by his wife of 60 years, Lorrie, daughter Gwen (Post), son Rick (Brenda), and son John (Kathryn) and grandchildren Alex Post, Hannah Wolfson, Graham and Ryan Post, Maggie, Cole, Brody, Elizabeth, Abigail, Evelyn Becker, and beloved golden retriever Bella.

Becker was born in Flint, Michigan. He attended high school in Marion, Indiana. Dick met Lorrie at Michigan State University, where he earned a bachelor’s degree. He was commissioned an Ensign in the US Navy when he graduated in 1965. He was then assigned to a two year tour of duty on the destroyer USS Harold J Ellison.

In 1968, he returned to Grand Rapids to begin a career in marketing and advertising and raise a family. He left active duty but retained his commission as an officer in the US Naval Reserve. He worked at Aves Advertising, Old Kent Bank and managed human resources at Steelcase.

Becker rose through the ranks of the US Navy and was promoted to the position of Rear Admiral in October of 1991. He was in command of many different units specializing in public affairs.

One of the highlights of his naval career was helping to coordinate the 50th anniversary of the D-Day celebration in June 1994. The event was attended by many of the world leaders. He also coordinated funerals for President Gerald R. Ford and his wife Betty.

Committed to service, Dick assumed many leadership positions within the community. He was a Holland Historical Lighthouse Commissioner, a member of the Laketown Township Parks and Recreation Commission, Planning Commission, and he supported the Harbor Humane Society. He served as Commodore of the Macatawa Bay Yacht Club, Board Member of Macatawa Park Cottagers’ Association, and supporter of the Macatawa Bay Junior Association.

Dick enjoyed local theatre and performed himself at the Grand Rapids Civic Theater in the Odd Couple and Arsenic and Old Lace. He had a passion for collecting vintage cars.

A Mass of Christian Burial will be held on Friday, July 26, at 11:00am, at Our Lady of the Lake Catholic Church, 480 152nd Avenue, Holland, Michigan 49424. Father Michael Burt presiding. A time of visitation will be held one hour prior at the church.

In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation to the American Lung Association or the Harbor Humane Society.

Fair winds and following seas.