William “Bill” John Becker was the only child born to Dr. William L. and Helen M. Ihringer Becker on 29 November 1945 in Portland, Oregon. He attended Holy Cross School and graduated from Jefferson High School. He did two years of post-graduate work at Benson Polytechnic High School in Mechanics.
He became very active in the old car hobby during his high school years and received his 1909 Brush Run-about for graduation. He participated and helped organize the Lloyd Center Car Show for many years.
Through the Catholic Singles organization (the Chancellors Club) he met his loving wife Karen L. Green. They were married 30 August 1975 at St. Mary’s Cathedral in Portland. On Valentine’s Day 1977 they moved into their house on Tile Flat Road and their son Christopher William was born 16 March 1977. Then on 8 November 1978 they welcomed their daughter Susan Marie. Bill and Karen celebrated their 35th Wedding Anniversary on 30 August 2010.
Bill operated Tualatin Valley Restorations, restoring many beautiful, show quality, automobiles. In 1978 Bill and Karen entered into business with Bill’s grandfather Lou Becker, selling Ford Model T parts. They expanded the business to become Becker’s Model ‘T’ and ‘A’ Ford Parts, Inc. It was sold in 1980 and Bill began sandblasting, retiring in 2007. In 2003 as a family we began Becker’s DIY Auto Restorations renting individual spaces, allowing others to restore their own automobiles with a sense of community. Bill also taught auto restoration classes at PCC: developing numerous new friendships along the way.
In 2008/09 our dear friends voluntarily built a new pole building, providing more opportunities and friendships. “Spirit” as we dubbed the new building has been a blessing to us.
Bill went to be with his heavenly family on Wednesday 13 October 2010. He is preceded in death by his parents and grandparents. His wife, Karen, survives him, as do his children and their families. Chris and Melissa Becker with their son Carston and Fred and Susan Bishop with their daughter Ginnie.
Memorial Contributions may be made to Christ The King (sister parics of St. Cecilia's) Highway 64, Shiprock, NM 87420
