Gary Becker Obituary

1937 - 2013 From Park Ridge, Il to Santa Monica, Ca. Boy Scout, Eagle Scout, quarterback at Maine Township High School, CTA bus driver, undergrad at Northwestern University, University of Illinois College of Medicine, internship Gorgas Hospital Canal Zone, residency Cook County Hospital, resident and fellowship in otolaryngology and maxillofacial surgery Northwestern University. Head and Neck Physician/Surgeon, US Army Captain, Assistant Professor UCLA, Assistant Chief VA Wadsworth Hospital Center, staff Southern California Permanente Medical Group. Fellow of American Academy of Otolaryngology Head and Neck Surgery, American Academy of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, American College of Surgeons. Author of many peer reviewed articles on head and neck surgery, instructor of Medical Aspects of Scuba Diving for the AAO-HNS. Certified scuba diver 1966, Naui and Padi instructor/mentor to countless scuba students, motorcycle aficionado, classic car owner, airplane owner and pilot certified in sail planes, aerobatic, and single engine; downhill skier, sailor, swimmer, accomplished chef, all-around Mr. Fix Anything. Loved Dixieland music, ethnic food, popcorn, ice cream, and women. Known for a very dry sense of humor. Son of Mabel and Sylvester, fraternal twin to Beverly, half-brother to Bette, husband to Juanita who died in 1983 and then to Elaine; step father to Michael and Pamela, father to Glenn, and his favorite role as grandfather to Gabie whom he hopes will always remember him. Gary was unstoppable except in the 18 year long challenge of cancer. Miss you, babes!

Published by Los Angeles Times on Jan. 17, 2014.
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Memories and Condolences
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6 Entries

I miss you my brother. What a wonderful and fun time we had growing up together! Don't forget to save me a place next to you.

Beverly Katzenberger

January 30, 2014

smart, common sense, friend , colleague,confidant, a man of few good words, the world is not the same

bob and jean kagan

January 24, 2014

RIP Gary, the neighborhood family misses you.

Pat Cates

January 24, 2014

I enjoyed the time we did spend together. I loved seeing your face light up when you showed off your vintage car and your airplane. I hope you are flying high now.
Rest in peace.

Janice Magill

January 22, 2014

Although we didn't spend much time with Gary, the time that we did spend with him was funny, smart and never dull. We will miss him.

Bill and Jenny Sparks

January 22, 2014

Please accept my sincere condolence. May the God of all comfort comfort you as you face this very difficult time.

Petrina Bell

January 17, 2014

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