Wilbert “Punch” Becker

Wilbert "Punch" Becker, 66, Bismarck, died July 9, 2007, at St. Alexius Medical Center, Bismarck. Burial will be in the North Dakota Veterans Cemetery, Mandan.

Wilbert was born in Streeter Nov. 6, 1940, the son of Henry A. and Katherine "Katie" (Lachenmeier) Becker. After graduating from Streeter High School, he enlisted in the U.S. Army in order to serve his country. Upon his return to North Dakota, in 1964, he began working for Wold Engineering (formerly Skaar Engineering), where he worked for 43 years, before retiring in May 2006. Following his retirement, he continued to work for Wold Engineering.

Family was always the center of Punch's life. On April 24, 1965, Punch married his sweetheart, Dianne Becker; they had two daughters. Punch's entire life revolved around love for his family and friends. He was an incredible loving husband, father and friend. He will be missed dearly.

Punch is survived by his wife, Dianne, Bismarck; two daughters, Shellayne and Heidi Becker; two brothers, Henry (Elentina), Napoleon, and Leonard (Joann), Bismarck; two sisters, Eldena Rau and Jean (Cliff) Wagner, both of Bismarck; his very special friends, Holly Beck and Billy Futrell; and many nieces and nephews.

Punch was preceded in death by his parents, Katherine "Katie" and Henry Becker; four sisters, Agnes, Annie, Viola and Alice; and two brothers, Roland and Emil.