The
deceased, Frederick S. Becker, Sr., was born near Gettysburgh, Pa., Aug.
13th, 1817; died at his late residence Oct. 17, 1896. A family of six
brothers and one sister, Charles Becker, formerly a resident of Henry, now
of Aberdeen, Washington, the only surviving member. Mr. Becker came west
while in his teens, and soon after engaged in the mercantile business in St.
Louis, where he was a most successful business man for several years,
securing by his financial ability and upright life, not only the confidence
of the businessmen of that city, but as he has remared to his family, "my
credit was good enough, though but a young man, to secure in the eastern
markets any amount of desired favor." After that terrible destructive fire
in the 40s, he left St. Louis and came to Henry, Ill., where he and his
brother Charles engaged in the grocery business for several years. He
retired from active business life in the sixties. Was married June 19, 1866,
to Miss Abbie Ward of Henry, Ill. Two children were born to them, a daughter
and son, daughter dying in infancy, son still surviving, who by his devotion
and love greatly cheered the heart of his father, who dearly idolized his
boy. He contracted a cold while on the farm, from the result of which a
dreadful cough followed for the last 20 years of his life; at times during
the last few months of his life, his sufferings were intense. But not a
murmur. "My work is done, I am ready," were the expressions often repeated,
and surely those who knew him best could exclaim, "Well done" grand noble
soul, fitted to enter rest.
In the many relations he sustained he was ever found true in the discharge of duty, served as secretary and treasurer of the Henry City Bridge Co. from 1865 to 1885, for the entire period of 20 years faithful and untiring in the discharge of the duties of his office. It was during his term of office the bridge was built and the company was largely indebted to him for the successful management of its finances, when money was hard to obtain except at the rate of 10 and 12 percent. He was also a member of the Board of Education for several years. He was a man among men, although shut in from the contact of the busy world, keeping himself thoroughly posted in all the affairs of the nation, was one of them. A great reader, a most remarkable memory which served him to the last. THe word of God was his standard of heart and life, and the truths which he had treasured his daily source of comfort and strength. Truly "blessed are the pure in heart for they shall see God."
His strength failed greatly during the last two weeks, but was dressed each day and mingled with the family as usual; on Saturday morn, Oct. 17, he began to sink rapidly and about 12 m. expired, resting between the arms of his faithful wife and dutiful son.
Dear father, how we shall miss you,
But we know you are at rest,
And we hope to meet you
In the home of the blest.
Beautiful floral offerings were tendered: An anchor from family; cut flowers from Hattie Wasmult, Mr and Mrs Lincoln, Mrs Goltra, Epworth League; a cross and antum leaves from Mrs Hall and Mrs Wasmer.
Card of Thanks.
To the dear friends, for the sympathy and many acts of kindness shown us
during our recent bereavement we extend our heartfelt thanks, praying the
great giver of all good to reward a hundred fold.
Mrs F. S. Becker,
Fred S. Becker.
Source: Henry Republic, 22 Oct 1896
Contributed 08 Mar 2019 by Norma
Hass
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