John Becker

John G Becker, age 100, of Columbus, Ohio, passed away on June 5, 2025. John lived in Erie, PA prior to moving to Columbus 4 years ago with his wife Shirley.

John was born on December 16, 1924 in Calmar, Iowa to Rudolf and Philomena (Meyer) Becker and spent his childhood in Iowa. A WWII and Korean War Veteran, he served with the Merchant Marines and Coast Guard. After graduating from University of Iowa, he joined Maytag. He and Shirley moved to Erie in 1956 and started Becker Maytag Appliance Store and Distributing Company.

John and Shirley Clark were married for 73 years and together they raised six children: Susan Becker (John Cronin), Lisbeth Becker (Allen Scarfone), Lisa Becker, Steven Becker (Nancy Becker), Mark Becker (Xiaodan Becker) and Julie Becker (Richard Hammers). They are blessed to have nine grandchildren: Christian Cronin (Tara Cronin), Drew Scarfone, Laura Scarfone, Luke Pan, Emilie Becker, Ryley Nezballa, Cali Nezballa (Nate Schott), Becker Nezballa and Mason Hammers; and one great-grandchild: Libbie Schott.

If you knew John – or even if you didn’t – you were likely greeted by one of his warm smiles. He was full of joy and truly an example of living life to the fullest. John was a large presence in his family and the lives of everyone he touched. He enjoyed golfing and playing poker with his buddies.

John was a member of Saint Luke’s Parish in Erie, with whom he was a lector. John was a member of Sertoma and the Serra Club and served on various boards including Erie Blind Center and Millcreek Zoning Board. One of his favorite annual events was with Erie Times Old Newsies.

John is survived by his spouse, children, grandchildren and great-grandchild. He is proceeded in death by his parents and ten siblings.

John’s family will celebrate a funeral mass at Saint Brendan the Navigator Catholic Church in Hillard on June 10 at 10:30 am.

John valued the wonderful friendships at his new home at Friendship Village of Dublin. A reception will be held at Friendship Village of Dublin, from one to three pm on Tuesday, June 10,

In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations be made to the charity of your choice.