Dorothy Becker, age 96, died peacefully at home surrounded by her loving family on Monday night, July 14, 2025. Dorothy, the daughter of Louis and Catherine (Fox) Leifeld, was born on February 9, 1929. She attended school in New Trier. Dorothy was united in married to Laverne “Bud” Becker on June 20, 1953, at St. John the Baptist Catholic Church in Vermillion. She worked as a head cook at Tilden Elementary School until she retired. Dorothy loved bowling and spending time at Treasure Island. Dorothy and Bud were instrumental in the construction of the KC Hall. She was always gardening or baking. Dorothy was strong-willed and determined, as well as budget minded and a bargain shopper. She was empathetic to those in need and those in tough times. Dorothy was a lifetime member of the VFW Auxiliary.
She is preceded in death by her husband, Bud; parents, Louis and Catherine Leifeld; infant son, Larry; daughter-in-law, Mary; great-grandson, Charles Furlong; siblings, Catherine (Joseph) Ginther, Leo (Helen) Leifeld, Joseph Leifeld, Theresa (Bill) King. Dorothy is survived by children, Ron, Shirley, Ed, Nick, Kathy (Bob) Furlong, Joe (Sue); 14 grandchildren; 28 great-grandchildren; two great-great-grandchildren; sister-in-law, Luella Leifeld; and many nieces, nephews, relatives and friends.
In lieu of flowers, memorials may be directed to Hastings Family Service.
Dorothy’s family would like to send a special thank you to Father Martin Siebenaler, as well as Nikki, Kim, Kara, Kirsten, Karlie, Pat, and all the other caretakers over the years.
A Mass of Christian Burial was held on Monday, July 21, 2025 at 11 a.m. at Saint Elizabeth Ann Seton Catholic Church with visitation one hour prior to the service. Interment will be in Saint Elizabeth Ann Seton Cemetery. Arrangements are with Starkson Family Life Celebration Chapel.
