Richard Walter Becker

Richard W. Becker, 87, passed away peacefully on December 1, 2024, in the comfort of his home, surrounded by his loving family.

Born on August 27, 1937, in Springfield, NJ, Richard was the son of the late Walter and Dorothy (Beavers) Becker. He was a natural storyteller, often reminiscing about his lively youth and adventurous 20s. Summers spent at his Uncle Howard’s farm left a lasting impression; he cherished memories of sleeping in an attic bedroom where the comforting scent of curing ham lulled him to sleep.

Richard excelled in athletics during high school, earning four varsity letters—two in pole vaulting and two in football. Shortly after graduation, he was drafted into the U.S. Army, where he proudly served as a medic in the First and Fifth Army Divisions from 1962 to 1964.

Following his military service, Richard attended trade school and built a career as a skilled electrician. In his younger years, he also had a passion for motorcycle racing, competing on dirt tracks along the East Coast and earning several trophies. Known for his daring spirit, he was undeniably "the cool guy" of his day.

While stationed in Boston, MA, during active duty, Richard met Gretchen Austad—rumored to have been on a blind date. Her attraction to his wild charm and his readiness to settle down led to their marriage in 1965. Together, they built a life in Underhill, VT, raising three children: Rachel, Rebecca, and Joseph. Their partnership spanned 49 years before Gretchen’s passing in 2014.

Richard embraced Vermont’s rural lifestyle, taking pride in “living off the land.” He tended to a large vegetable garden and heated his home exclusively with wood he chopped himself until 2019 when his children convinced him to add a secondary heat source. A renowned outdoorsman and master trapper, Richard’s passion for trapping endured throughout his life, and he delighted in sharing his knowledge with others. He also loved stock car racing and spent many memorable days spanning 30 years at Thunder Road as a crew member for the Richard Greene #16VT car.

A proud veteran, Richard was deeply committed to honoring those who served. As a long-time member and former Commander of American Legion Post 35, he organized the Underhill/Jericho Memorial Day parade for many years and ensured that every veteran’s grave in Underhill was marked with a fresh American flag. He was also a member of the Sons of the American Revolution and a dedicated Mason.

Richard is survived by his children, Rachel Becker, Rebecca Lemire, and Joseph Becker, as well as his grandson, Zachary Lemire. He was predeceased by his wife, Gretchen Becker, and his brother, Barry Becker.

Richard’s legacy of resilience, dedication, and love for his family and community will be cherished by all who knew him.

Visiting hours will be held Monday, December 9th at 4 - 7 PM at Goss Funeral Home, 96 Dickinson Ave., Enosburg Falls, VT 05450. A funeral service will be held Tuesday, December 10th at 11 AM, also at Goss Funeral Home. Interment will follow at the Underhill Cemetery on Park Street in Underhill, VT. Very casual attire is requested at all events as Richard always wore jeans and wasn’t a big fan of fancy dress, although he was buried in the suit he was married in at his request. 

 In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to a veteran’s charity of your choice. 

The family also invites you to share your memories and condolences by visiting www.gossfs.com