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James "Jim" Becker, 82, of Fairbanks and Danbury, Wis., peacefully passed away March 4, 2013, at his home in Danbury.
He is preceded in death by his parents; his brother, Bill; and his wife, Marilyn. He will be greatly missed by his wife, Jean; daughters, Susan (Brad) Anderson, Cindy (Bruce) Palm; son, Dan (Cheryl) Becker; grandchildren, James Anderson, Katie Anderson, Amy, Jim and Molly Palm; great grandchildren, Emilie and Will Anderson; stepchildren, Betsy Fagerlee, David Fagerlee and Sarah Goudelock.
Jim grew up in Sparta, Wis., and Minneapolis. He had great respect for his mother who tried her best to keep him on the "straight and narrow" during his teen years.
Jim entered the U.S. Air Force shortly after high school graduation and spent three years in Germany. This is where he first became interested in aircraft repair. Following his service discharge, Jim was employed at Minneapolis Honeywell, retiring after 38 years.
Jim married Marilyn Hayes in July 1957. They raised their three children in a close-knit family, and enjoyed many family gatherings in Minneapolis and at their lake place in Aitkin, Minn. Marilyn passed away in November 1976.
Jim filled many hours building his Pitts biplane and learning to fly aerobatics. Anyone willing to fly upside-down was a welcome passenger.
Jim and Jean were married in 1981. After retiring from Honeywell, Jim started a new career as an aircraft mechanic and he and Jean moved to Alaska. Together, they explored many areas of the state. Most lasting of those memories are the many close friendships made during those 20 years.
Meeting people, traveling, socializing and being with family were important to Jim. He also loved the quiet times outdoors, both in Alaska and Wisconsin. He and Jean spent 31 years together camping, paddling rivers, flying, building their home in Wisconsin and, more recently, just watching the birds and deer from Jim's "front row seat" that looked out on the woods.
A celebration of Jim's life will be held Sunday, March 17, 2013, in Minnesota. A future gathering in Fairbanks will be announced.
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
We'll miss our friend around the shop but we see him in all the projects and incredible workmanship aaround us every day. We only knew Jim for six years but were honored to be part of his "family". Thank you Jim and we love you Jean - Chena Marina Air
Nathan Howard
March 29, 2013
Jean & Family so sorry for your loss. I will never forget the day Lynn came back home after flying with him. His eyes were like saucers. It is seldom in this life that we get to give such a thrill to a friend. And Jim also gave me a thrill to see my father so excited as, he was battling cancer at that time. I am grateful for that memory. Also living in your home on The Strand we always knew when Jim was in town as he used to buzz the house just for fun. May your memories be food for your soul. Until we meet again God's blessings.
Kimberly Nord-Nash
March 22, 2013
Jim was a great guy and the best friend. We worked together @ Chena Marina Air Service in Fairbanks. We always looked forward to break time and sharing a laugh and donuts. He will be missed.
Carl & Sandy Bakken
March 20, 2013
Rest in peace my friend. You where the best and I feel very fortunate to have had you as a friend.
Dan Pearson
March 16, 2013
I feel blessed that Ihad the opportunity to know Jim for even a brief time. Jean, you are in my prayers.
Maggie Duffy
March 16, 2013
john martin
March 15, 2013
I worked with Jim at Honeywell from 1963 to 1969.He was a great partner on the job and a great friend then and years to come I think often of Him and those early Sunday morning golf games with Him and His son Dan. Our prayers are with His family Harvey Lofquist
March 15, 2013
Please accept out most heartfelt sympathies for your loss. Our thoughts are with you and your family during this difficult time. May the God of all comfort give you the strength to cope. 2 Corth 1:3.
A. Borthwell
March 15, 2013
Worked with Jim at Honeywell for many years. We hunted, went to lunch and garage sales together. He will be missed.
March 14, 2013
My family and I will miss Jim very much.He listened to my stories,was there when more hands were needed and always offered his encouragement "Go For It".Every day with Jim the sun was shining bright.He was a Best Neighbor and a Best Friend.
Tom Morrison
March 14, 2013
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