"Even though I don't believe we ever meant, which I would of liked that, since your my uncle and I'm your niece, ( Rich Bearbecker oldest daughter and to Mary Lynn Farr ) I'm very sorry for your loss, I hope one day we will finally meet. Sincerely Ginger Joy Becker."
In loving memory of
William "Bill" Becker
September 4, 1953 - May 6, 2017
William "Bill" Gordon Becker, 63 of Winona, passed away unexpectedly Saturday, May 6, 2017. He was born on September 4, 1953 in Winona to Malcom and Patricia (Maynard) Becker. Bill graduated from Winona Senior High and attended Winona State University. On March 31, 1983, he married the love of his life, Laurie Kohner. Together they shared 34 wonderful years. In September of 1974, Bill started working for Fastenal and was the longest tenured employee, starting out as a part-time employee, and held many positions over the years. He was currently the Cost Savings Manager. Bill was not only a motivator in his professional life, but for everyone he touched. One of Bill's lifelong passions was weight lifting. He set many records across the United States and World. He was a member of the United States Power Lifting Association and the International Power Lifting Association. He loved outdoor grilling and his McDonald's Cokes, but most importantly he loved to attend his grandchildren's sporting events. Bill was extremely loyal to his family and friends. Bill is survived by his greatest love, Laurie; children; Ryan (Maria) Becker and Jenny (Kevin) Suber; grandchildren, Isaiah, Landon, Aria, Alivia, Ashlynn, Samaya, and Makai; his father, Malcom; brother, Rich Bearbecker; brother-in-law, Dan (Debbie) Kohner; mother-in-law, Jane Kohner; and many extended family and friends. He is preceded in death by his mother, Patricia; and father-in-law, Edward Kohner. A Celebration of Bill's life will be at 12 p.m., Wednesday, May 10, 2017 at Hoff Celebration of Life Center, Goodview, with Funeral Celebrant Dianne Rislow officiating. Visitation will be from 10 a.m., until the time of service. Please share a memory of Bill and view his video tribute when it becomes available at www.hofffuneral.com. Hoff Celebration of Life Center, Goodview, is assisting the family. Bill leaves a legacy of love and a passion for excellence.
Tributes
"I just learned about Bill's death earlier today as I visited Iron Physique today in La Crosse, WI. I'm still shocked about this tragedy. I have known Bill for many years through the powerlifting community, and got to know him better while I lived in La Crosse. I was always impressed at what kind of person he was. I had the pleasure of spotting him on many huge feats of strength, and I was honored. He will be truly missed. "
"I just learned if Bill's passing this morning. I met Bill at The Pearl Street Gym in LaCrosse back in 1988, what a great guy very positive and always gave you helpful advice to get the most out of your workout. So sad to hear he's gone and my condolences to his family. Dennis Stiebs Waupaca Wis."
"Bill was one of a kind and a person who truly loved the company and what he did. He played a big part in the success of my business and every time I got the pleasure to see he we always made time to catch up. He will be missed and Fastenal has lost one of its most loyal members. Thanks for alll you did Bill! Michael Herrell"
"It was a pleasure to work with Bill when I was with Fastenal. He was a very motivating and inspiring man. He was always positive. Our thoughts and prayers are with the family."
"Bill was such a positive, upbeat person. I never once saw him down or discouraged. Everything was possible. My deepest condolences at this sad time. Dave Piro"
"With love from my family to Laurie and your family our deepest condolences. Fastenal Mexico! Nestor Otero "
"Our deepest condolences to Laurie and the family. Fastenal team, Santiago de Chile"
"Bill was a wonderful man Laurie. You and your family are in our thoughts and prayers. Julie and Bill Wright"
"We at Kimberly-Clark feel blessed and honored to have had the priveledge to work with Bill. Our entire organization felt inspired each time we were able to connect with him. Our deepest sympathy to you Laurie and your beautiful family. "
"Laurie, Ryan, Jenny & Family, I'm so sorry to hear about Bill. My thoughts and prayers are with you all. "
"Laurie, I didn't know Bill well but I remember how I watched you and your love dance at the class reunion we had at the Black Horse. You just glided across the floor like you were one person. I am so sorry for your loss honey and will keep you and your family in my thoughts and prayers. God bless!"
"Sincere Sympathy to all of Bill's family. Will never forget cheering him on at WSHS wrestling matches. He will be sadly missed by so many. Prayers to you and your family Laurie. Peg Beyers "
"Laurie and Family, I am still wrapping my arms around Bill's passing. When I look to the Heavens I will remember and feel Bill's generous caring hugs and laughter. I see a man who was not afraid to take on anything and never stood back to let someone fall. I Love You Bill and will miss your smile. Laurie, may the love of family and friends help you through the days ahead. Peace."
"Flexhouse Gym was a magical place for me. At Flexhouse I met my husband, my best friend, my greatest mentor and so many wonderful life-long friends. I'm so grateful to Bill for opening the gym and keeping it going for so many years. Bill's energy was amazing, he was always smiling, had a bounce in his step and kind words to share. I'm praying for Bill's family and friends, I can't begin to imagine how much he will be missed. Thank you Bill, I have no idea where I would be if we didn't cross paths. "
"My most sincere condolences to all of the Becker family. So many great memories with Bill playing football and softball and winning the state championship. But the most special memory is that I called him a friend. All of the times with Bill will not be forgotten. Laurie, prayers to you and your family at this most difficult time. May Bill Rest In Peace. Glenn Vinton"
"We are so sorry to hear about Bill, may you hold your memories close to you."
"You were a roll model and everyone who got to know you learned the meaning of work ethic and to never settle for second best! You were a mentor, a most loyal friend and the big brother I always wanted! You truly made the lives of those around you brighter and you will be missed immensely! "
"Love and sympathy to you and all your family, Laurie, in this sorrowful time. From Cousin Graylen "
"Laurie We were all very saddened to hear about Bill and wish we could be with you. Our hope is that all of your great memories will help get you and your family through this time. From all your family in Milwaukee."
"We are still in total disbelief. Bill leaves a big void. He never failed to put a smile on anyones face, offer a helping hand and set an example of what it is to be kind. We will forever miss him and his zest for living life to the fullest. Laurie, Ryan and Jenny, may the wonderful memories you have carry you through the difficult time ahead. "
"Words cannot express the love I have for Bill. He was always gracious towards my family and I from the moment we met. He was full of love laughter and fun. There was never a dull moment. I will forever be greatful for him loving us like we were his real family. And greatful to the love he had for my brother. We love you and will miss you dearly (your Michigan family)"
"I met Bill many times over the years, but remember most he shares a love of classic rock music. I remember years ago, after taking one of his classes, I sent him 2 cd's of Uriah Heep music. We both got such a laugh about it when I saw him again. He really is a very special person. "
"I don't think I could make a long list of everything that I remember about this guy. Not only did I grow up with his kids whom are now great friends of mine...we all grew up together as a big Softball Family. Going to Skippers after softball, watching bands, going to Solum Springs, the big hugs I use to get when I worked at Fastenal, or our nice long talk about the grandbabies when he came and got his vehicle serviced at Toyota a few months back. Always smiling, always a joy, and always a great family friend. You will so be missed."
"Bill had such a positive impact on everybody he met. Even though his body is no longer with us, Bill Becker will never be forgotten !"
"Laurie, Ryan, Jenny, and Family, I am deeply saddened for your loss. Bill was an amazing man. He always treated me like I was part of the family. His mentoring and encouragement in High School and in my career were instrumental is my personal and professional development. His passion for life was contagious. I will miss him dearly. My thoughts and prayers go out to you all. Jake Ruesgen"
"Dear Laurie, it was with deep sadness to learn of Bill's passing. He was a wonderful guy! Please accept my deepest sympathy in your loss. I am sorry I am unable to be there in person to share in the celebration of Bill's life, but know that you and your family are in my thoughts and prayers. Jane Gray (i.e., Michalowski)"
"Laurie and Family, So sorry for your Great loss and God Bless your Family at this most difficult time. Fondly, Jim and Jeanine Stiles"
"Laurie, Jenny,Ryan and all of your family. Our hearts ache for you. You are family to us. It's hard to find words to express how deeply Bill will be missed. His never ending positive spirit, loving laugh and that smile that came from his heart. He touched our souls. We are here for all of you... today... tomorrow.... at 3am or 3pm. May you find strength in your faith and from the love of your friends to help you get through this. With all our love, Jeff & Lisa Singer"
"Laurie Jenny Ryan Deb Dan and family, We are thinking about all the memories we shared and there are so many! Glenn reminisces frequently about the state tournament and that last ball that was hit to the outfield of which Glenn shared with his left hand man in that outfield was "Billy". If there was a ball to be caught between those two it "was a done deal". Bill looked at Glenn and said "you were going to get that ball even if you were going through the fence weren't you?" They looked at each other smiled from ear to ear and that famous high five with their mitts will forever be a favorite memory. Bills laugh, his smile, his giant gentleness, and most of all the sample of "true love" to you Laurie of which we have known for 30 years ourselves. Where there is sadness there is hope, where there are tears there is faith, where there is peace, there is love. May the "outfields" in heaven be filled with fly balls for we know you will catch everyone! We will cheer you on, here on earth, on those same bleachers, knowing that you are the best outfielder in heaven! Glenn and Renae"
"God bless this family. My heart hurts for your loss. May God give you the strength, courage, love, peace and joy you need to get through this very tough and trying time of grief. I'll be praying for you all. "
"Dear Laurie, Ryan, Jenny, Uncle Mal and Ricky, I will always remember road trips back in the mid 70's that Billy and I made together, especially on Saturdays in the fall to Madison. I got to know him better thru these times together. My journey took me away from the midwest. It was so good to see him again at the family reunion. I have never seen anybody hit a golf ball off a tee further than Billy did. I am still in shock as I'm sure all of you must be and so sorry for your loss. "
"Billy, You have always been an inspiration, mentor, and most of all a friend. Thank you for all of these things. Thank you to the Becker Family for sharing Bill with so many people during his life. My thoughts and prayers are with you during this difficult time. Respectfully, Brian R. Buckson Jr. "
"Bill, I will miss you and only wish I was more of a part of your life in the later years.....you see we were BEST friends in 9th and 10th grade! We ran cross country together and went to prom together (and dates).....I will sure miss you! I have told many people of your amazing accomplishments and I have always been so inspired by you. I am only so glad you stopped up to see me in Prescott, WI a couple of summers ago....was great to see you and catch up a little. I will never forget you and will certainly miss you Bill. I am very proud to have known you! I cannot tell you how sad I am right now.... Your high school buddy, Mark E Aeling"
"Laurie, Ryan and Jenny, My thoughts and prayers are with you at this untimely death of Bill. He was a wonderful man and an inspiration to many, which will be instilled by those who were blessed to have met Bill....I will cherish the memories that I have of him at Fastenal and River Hills Dental, he truly had the gift to gab and always was proud of his family, that smile of his will forever be evident in all our lives..... God Bless, Tammy Seebold"