Obituaries : Gary “Bear” Charles Becker

Gary "Bear" Charles Becker, 68, of Watkins, IA passed away September, 23, 2024 at his home.

Gary was born January 7, 1956 to Louis and Mary (O'Brien) Becker in Cedar Rapids, IA. He graduated from Benton Community High School, class of 1974 and studied Ag Mechanics at Kirkwood Community College. Following school, he worked as a mechanic at Leo Kelly's and for the Ford tractor dealership in Cedar Rapids. In 1980 he went to work for Goss while also hauling for Ray Brecht Trucking Services. Throughout his careers Gary was a lifelong farmer and enjoyed working on tractors.

Gary looked forward to spending time with friends on golf trips and tractor pulls. He was an official for the East Central Iowa Pulling Association.

He is survived by many family and friends. Gary is preceded in death by his father.

Private mass will take place at St. Patrick's Catholic Church, Watkins, IA, with burial at St. Patrick and St. Paul's Cemetery, Watkins. Celebration of life will take place at a later date.