Howard "Swede" George Becker, 84, of Clayton, died Thursday, August 8, 2019, at Golden Age Manor. He was born October 17, 1934, in Almena, WI to Henry and Alvina (Volkmann) Becker, and was raised on the family farm in Turtle Lake, WI.

Swede began hauling farm milk with his father, Henry, at the age of 14. Swede married Joyce Lorraine Kunkel on September 4, 1954. In 1962, he relocated to the Milwaukee area. He worked as a truck driver of all sorts and was a member of the Teamsters Local 200 Union. He then retired from Edgerton Contractors, Inc. of Oak Creek, WI as a Heavy Equipment Hauler in 1978. Upon retirement, he was the owner of the Wheel-er-Inn tavern, in Wheeler, WI. He kept himself busy tending bar, and tinkering on various projects; he was a jack of all trades.

Swede dearly loved his family, driving truck and operating heavy equipment, fishing, the Green Bay Packers, the Milwaukee Brewers, dogs, and horses.

He is survived by his sons: Larry (Julie) Becker and Loren Becker; daughters: Sandra (the late Gary) Kalan, Deanna (Dale) Haselhuhn, and Amanda (Mark Mraz) Rickards; 20 grandchildren; 25 great-grandchildren; brothers: Harland Becker, Harvey (Bev) Becker; sisters: Bernice (Chuck) Boe and Beatrice Elfers; nieces, nephews, and many other family and friends. Howard was preceded in death by his son, Gary; son-in-law, Gary Kalan Sr.; brothers, Harold and Henry Becker; and his parents, Henry and Alvina Becker.

Funeral services will be held at 11 AM Monday, August 12, 2019, at St. Matthew Lutheran Church with Pastor Greg Becker officiating. Burial will be in St. Matthew Cemetery. Pallbearers are Michael Bauer, Timothy Becker Sr., Benjamin Becker, Ashley Poznikowich, Christopher Becker, and Cole Haselhuhn. Honorary pallbearer will be Randy Sinz. Visitation will be from 2-6 PM Sunday, August 11, 2019, at the Skinner Funeral Home in Turtle Lake, and one hour before the service on Monday.

Skinner Funeral Home of Cumberland/ Turtle Lake is serving the family.

Last Update: Aug 09, 2019 12:05 pm CDT