George Allen Becker, a life-long resident of McPherson, Kansas, passed on June 16, 2025. The esophageal cancer he had overcome returned, advanced rapidly, and claimed his life. Until his last week on this earth, he was focused on recovering so he could watch the last episode of Outlander, drink another Bud with his friend Ken, celebrate more of his children's and grandchildren's accomplishments, and to do all of this and more with his wife Donna.

Born on March 20, 1955, to Delores and Allen, George was a beloved father, son, grandson, brother, nephew, cousin, uncle, friend, and husband. A man of few words he touched the lives of many with his wry sense of humor, warmth, and friendly nature. He was a loyal friend and possessed the ability to connect to just about anyone. He cared deeply about the welfare of others. At night, George prayed for those who were facing serious health issues and other life struggles.

George loved football. In High School, he was awarded an Honorable Mention as offensive tackle for the 1972-1973 Kansas Class 5A All-State Football Team and in addition he received an All-Central Kansas League Team honor. In 2013 he attended a reunion with his old teammates and coaches from the 1972-1973 Central Kansas League championship team. His work ethic and skill earned him a full scholarship to play football at Emporia State University.

George, an avid hunter, cherished his time hunting pheasant, quail, and deer. When he was no longer able to hunt, he enjoyed target and skeet shooting, teaching his grandchildren how to handle a gun safely and hit the bull's eye.

When watching others play cards or a game he would often say he was just "Kibitzing." If bidding someone up in a hand of pinochle he'd say, "No guts, no glory." When Donna asked him how he was doing he would often reply, "I'm vertical," and if she asked him to repeat himself, he'd respond with, "Nut'n honey." He had a good memory and appreciation for the music of his younger days. He would happily pull up a song from the internet for almost any occasion. In the grocery store, the condiment aisle was George's favorite. He liked it spicey. Hot sauce went on everything except pecan pie!

When George retired, he looked forward to endless leisure time, but within a few months it drove him crazy, and he got a job on the maintenance crew at the McPherson Cemetery.  Jenny George's gravestone was his favorite. She lived to be almost 109.  His goal was to live at least into his 90's. Honor George by living your life to the fullest, have fun, joke, pay your bills on time, spice it up while also caring for others, especially those with significant needs.

George was preceded in death by his parents, Allen and Delores Becker; his in-laws, Viv and Doris Nelson; and his sisters, Carol Becker and Barbara Knackstedt.  He is survived by Donna, his wife of 47 years; son, Justin and children, Justus, Samuel and Nora of Topeka, KS; daughter Stacey and partner Marcie of Topeka; brother-in-law, Dr. Cameron Knackstedt of Phillipsburg KS; nephew, Dr. Nathan Knackstedt and spouse Leslee of Hoisington, KS and their children EmmaLee Netteingham (Kolton) and Cameron; nephew, Jason Knackstedt and spouse LuAnne of New Haven, NJ and their children Luca, and Rose; uncle, Marion Becker of McPherson; brothers-in-law Mike Nelson and Charles Dedmon; sister-in-law Debra and partner, Delores. He is also survived by many loving cousins, their families, and dear friends.

He was truly loved by his family and friends and will be missed deeply by all, especially by his chair buddy, Livi.

A graveside service and celebration of life will be held in September. Memorials are suggested to the McPherson ReUse It Center at 120 Old U.S. 81, McPherson KS 67460.

We would like to give a special thank you to Hospice of Reno County and Hospice House for the wonderful care they provided George and our family in his last days and hours. It was a blessing to have their support and guidance while caring for him in our home and then to have Hospice House when we no longer could do it ourselves.

Baker Funeral Home Valley Center - Condolences may be left for the family at www.bakerfhvc.com