Joshua (Josh) Marvin Becker
June 16, 2013
Joshua (Josh) Marvin Becker, 14 years old, of Urbandale, Iowa, passed away on Sunday, June 16, 2013, at Blank Children's Hospital in Des Moines.
Josh was born on February 19, 1999. He was the beloved son of Mark and Susan Becker and the treasured brother of Alyssa.
Josh was a 7th grader at Summit Middle School in Johnston. He was a compassionate young man who lived by the words, "there are no strangers here, only friends you haven't met." He touched the lives and the hearts of everyone he encountered; classmates, teachers, school bus drivers, nurses, doctors, respite care workers, friends, and family. His delightful sense of humor and quick wit brought joy to others.
Josh delighted in the time he had with his family. Many happy hours were spent on the family boat. Josh was the perfect fishing buddy and swimming companion.
School buses were of great interest to Josh. He enjoyed riding on them, watching for and collecting bus numbers, and especially visiting the bus barn. The Johnston Department of Transportation named Josh an Honorary Bus Driver.
Josh loved and admired his older sister, Alyssa. He enjoyed her care and attention. Josh dreamed of following in her footsteps, and attending Drake University.
Josh is survived by his parents, Mark and Susan Becker of Urbandale, a sister Alyssa Becker of Urbandale, maternal grandparents, Marvin and Betty Vander Werff of Pella, and paternal grandparents Lois Becker of Boone, and Jack and Donna Becker of Boone.
A funeral service will be held at 10:30 a.m., Saturday, June 22, 2013, at The Bridge, 10025 NW 62nd Ave in Johnston. Visitation will take place from 5 to 8 p.m. Friday at Hamilton’s on Westown Parkway, 3601 Westown Parkway in West Des Moines.
Memorial contributions may be directed to the family for distribution to various charities in loving memory of Josh.
Condolences may be expressed at:
www.HamiltonsFuneralHome.com
Pat Gagne
06/19/2013
Mark, Alyssa and Susan,
Words seem insufficient when I think about the loss of your child. I know how much you treasured him and that he enjoyed a blessedly happy life on earth because of you all. I pray that the same God who now has welcomed Josh into His home will comfort you with memories and the knowledge that you will see him again. Be at peace.
Sue Nystrom
06/19/2013
Dear Beckers,
I met Josh at Summit during his sixth grade year. He was such a nice kid, always friendly and helpful. He even came back and visited us this year when he was in 7th grade. Heaven just gained a really GREAT kid!
Janean Griffith
06/19/2013
Hearts remember long after we've said our good-byes. So, so sorry, Susan.
Debby Smith
06/18/2013
I feel truly blessed to have known Josh, he was always quick with a hug or high 5 when I would pass him in the hall. From his Timber Ridge days all the way back to Horizon days. He will be missed.
Brianna Sayre Geiser
06/18/2013
Susan- sending my deepest sympathy on the loss of your son. May your family find peace in loving memories.
MaryAnn Strawhacker
06/18/2013
So sorry to hear about your loss. Peace and comfort to you all. Joshua will be missed.
Gloria phifer
06/18/2013
I feel like I know Josh,we have been praying for him.
I pray God surround you with comfort
Donna Simpson
06/18/2013
Susan, I am so very sorry for your loss! You and your family are in my thoughts and prayers!
Leisa Fox
06/18/2013
I had the privilege to be Josh's Sunday School teacher when he was 3. To know that he's in the presence of all the disciples and forefathers we learned about all those years ago gives me great joy! What a blessing to have met him, enjoyed his greetings all these years and to know I'll be seeing him again. See you up there, Josh! Love you, buddy!
BJ Towe
06/18/2013
It was such a privilege to get to know Josh better while he was at Blank. He was so quick! I'll never forget how he "friended" people I'd never met using my Facebook page -- a sure testimony to his belief that the world isn't filled with strangers; only friends we haven't met yet! What a sweet and loving young man you raised. He's left his mark on so many, including me. With love, BJ
Chrissy Bradley
06/18/2013
Mark, Sue & Alyssa,
So sorry for your loss. You and your family will be in our prayers.
Chrissy, Brianna and Nathan Bradley
Jenny Keating
06/18/2013
Mark, Sue, & Alyssa (and extended family),
I'm very sorry to hear of Josh's death; and, although I know he is now free to run and do all the things he desired most without reservation, my heart hurts for you and this tremendous loss.
You are in my thoughts and prayers.
With love in Him, Jen
Sandy Niester
06/18/2013
Lois,
My thoughts and prayers go out to you and your family in this time of sorrow. Remember all the beautiful memories you have of Josh.
Mary Petersen-Teddy's mom
06/18/2013
We were very saddened to hear the news, that Josh passed away. Teddy asked about him often, and never gave up hope. Our thoughts and prayers are with you. God bless, Troy, Mary, and Teddy Petersen
Leah Beeman - teacher at Summit Middle School
06/18/2013
I am so saddened to hear of Josh's passing. I always looked forward to seeing him everyday and knowing how much he loved helping out in my classroom. He was always so caring and concerned for others. He had a heart of gold and that came through each and everyday. I will miss him but I am so happy I have such fond memories of him during his time at Summit.