Francis A. Becker

age 88 of Hamilton, Ohio passed away on February 24, 2011 at Hospice of Hamilton. Francis was born on July 1, 1922 in Hamilton, Ohio to Clara Gruber Becker and Joseph John Becker, Sr. Francis received his elementary education at St. Stephens Parochial School and graduated from Hamilton Catholic High School in June of 1940.

After graduation Francis served his country during World War II as a radio mechanic for the 9th Army Air Force, 437th Troop Carrier Group attaining the rank of Staff Sergeant. Recently Francis received the National Order of the Legion of Honor from France for his effort during World War II.

In 1949 Francis married the love of his life, Elaine M. Burckey. To this union Francis and Elaine had three children, Doris, Donald, and John. In 1958 Francis moved his family to their current residence. Francis worked 33 years at Champion International Papers and retired on October 31, 1985.

Francis is survived by his ever faithful and loving wife, Elaine having attained 62 years of marriage, two sons, Donald and wife Carol, John and wife Melanie, grandchildren, Joseph, Stephanie, and Matthew Becker and Timothy (Nancy), and Christopher Westbrock and Kathryn (Patrick) Gleeson, great-grandchildren Danielle, Sean, Evan, Sara, and Taylor. Francis is also survived by his sister Dottie (Jack) Cepluch , many nieces and nephews and beloved friends.

Francis was preceded in death by his parents Joseph and Clara Becker, a daughter Doris Jean Meloon in 1993, six sisters Anne, Rosalia Dudek, Rita, Mary, Magdelin Schopmeyer, and two brothers, William, and Joseph Jr.. Mass of Christian burial will be held at St. Peter in Chains Church in Hamilton, Ohio at 10:00AM, Monday February 28, 2011 with graveside services to follow at St. Stephens Cemetery in Hamilton, Ohio. Visitation will be from 2:00PM until 4:00PM Sunday, February 27, 2011 (TODAY) at the Avance Funeral Home & Crematory, 4976 Winton Rd., Fairfield, OH 45014 .

In lieu of flowers, donations to St. Peter in Chains St. Vincent DePaul Society, 382 Liberty Ave., Hamilton, Ohio 45013 or Shared Harvest Foodbank, Inc., 5901 Dixie Highway, Fairfield, Ohio 45014 are appreciated. Condolences may be sent at www.avancefuneralhome.com.

Visitation

2-4 p.m., Sunday, February 27, 2011 @ Avance Funeral Home

Service

10 a.m., Monday, February 28, 2011 @ St. Peter in Chains Church