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Mathew J. Becke Battle Creek Mathew Joseph Becke, age 92 of Battle Creek, owner of Becke's Equipment Rental, Inc, passed away Sunday, September 20, 2009 at his home. He was born August 31, 1917 in Chicago, Illinois and later moved to Battle Creek. He served in the U.S. Army Air Corps during WWII from 1941 to 1946. Stationed in Ipswich, England with the 385th bomb group, he flew 19 bombardment missions over Germany as a waste gunner on a B17 Bomber. After the war Matt graduated from Argubright Business College in 1949. He was employed with G.O. Lewis Construction Company as an office manager. Later he became one of the first pioneers to open an equipment rental business in Battle Creek and remained active there until August of 2009. He sponsored both men's and women's slow-pitch softball teams for many years. His other interest included business trips to Las Vegas, spoiling his 2 grandkids, fattening up the family dogs and grilling his "special ham" recipe for family get-togethers. He is survived by his wife, Maxine; three sons: Alan (Carol) Becke, David and James Becke; daughter: Julie (Larry) Shanley; two grandchildren: Megan and Kelly Shanley; and family dogs: Buster and Molly. The family will receive friends at the Richard A. Henry Funeral Home from 5 p.m. to 7 p.m. Wednesday where a Rosary will be recited at 7 p.m. Funeral services will be held 10:00 a.m. Thursday at the funeral home with The Rev. Robert F Creagan officiating. Interment will follow at Memorial Park Cemetery. Memorial contributions may be given to Lifespan-Good Samaritan Hospice.
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3 Entries
Dear Becke Family,
Please accept our deepest sympathy with passing of Mr. Becke. We enjoyed living next door the the Becke Family, and I always enjoyed visiting with him. He was a type of role model to me when it came to raising my family. When Dave and Jim played football for SHS he was always very positive about the team and all the players.
The Becke Family will be in our thoughts and prayers.
Coach Fischer and Family
September 29, 2009
Dear Becke Family,
Sorry to hear about your loss. I remember Mr. Becke for his hard work every day in the family business, and hosting us at your house when we built the floats for homecoming.
I remember Jim talking about the famous hams too.
Keeping you in our thoughts and prayers.
Doug and Julie Wenger
September 23, 2009
Al, Dave, Jim & Julie,
I'm so sorry to hear about the loss of your Dad. I lost my Dad several years ago and I know your pain and sorrow. I'll always remember the Becke's Rental in Urbandale and the school days at Springfield. My best to you and your family.
Susie Wenger Manly
Holly Springs, NC
September 22, 2009
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