Jack Becker

Jack Becker, an architect by profession, was a creative man with many interests. But most of all, he was a loving and much-loved husband, father, and grandfather.

Jack was born and raised in Joplin, Missouri. He had fond memories of his boyhood in Joplin, and his exploits made entertaining stories for his children and grandchildren. Jack graduated from the School of Architecture at the University of California at Berkeley, where he met his wife, Kathy. He worked for many years in the architectural group at Bechtel Corp. in San Francisco, then headed up Bechtel's architectural groups first in Houston and then in the Los Angeles area. After Jack retired from Bechtel, he and Kathy moved to Scotts Valley.

Jack and Kathy particularly enjoyed spending time with their family, and frequently took their daughters, Terry and Lisa, on outings to the beach and camping and backpacking trips in the redwoods and the Sierra Nevada. Later Jack enjoyed playing cards with his grandchildren, and spent many hours reading to them. From him, his daughters learned how to wield a screwdriver and an electric drill, how to compose a photograph, and how to be a good and kind person who respects and values one's family, the feelings of others, and the wonders of nature.

Jack lived his last days at home, being cared for by his wife and daughters, a wonderful team of kind and gentle caregivers, and the many people from Hospice who provided care, advice, and solace. He died of leukemia at the age of 83 in early March, surrounded by family. He will be sorely missed by his wife Kathy, his daughters Terry and Lisa, his sons-in-law Vefa and Phil, his granddaughters Lidya and Leyla, his grandson Nicky, and many valued friends and relatives.

Jack did not wish to have a funeral. Memorial donations may be made to Hospice Caring Project.

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