Obituaries

Thomas R. Becker, Sr. passed away peacefully on May 2 surrounded by his family at the age of 87. A lifelong resident of Ft. Mitchell, Kentucky, Tom was known for his unwavering dedication to family, community, and service. Born on January 3, 1938, to the late Raymond and Mary (Bogenschutz) Becker, Tom was raised with a strong work ethic and sense of duty.

Tom honorably served his country in the United States Air Force as an air-traffic controller, stationed in Ohio, Indiana, North Dakota, and his favorite, Alaska. His military service was a defining chapter in his life and laid the foundation for his commitment to serving others.

Tom returned to Ft. Mitchell after his time in the military, where he followed in the footsteps of his grandfather and father becoming an active volunteer member of the Ft.Mitchell Fire Department. As a fire instructor, he traveled across the region training other fire services personnel so that lives and property may be saved more safely and effectively. With his wife, Pat, and many others in the city, they saw a need for their own ambulance service and became founding members. Tom served as chief for many years. His leadership and dedication left a lasting legacy in fire and emergency services across the region.

After working for Singer Sewing and US Shoe, Tom found a job with the Kenton County Water District. He would continue here until retirement in 2001 after a long-distinguished career in public service. Even in retirement, he remained a steady presence in the community, always ready to lend a hand or offer support to family,friends, and neighbors.

One of Tom’s favorite things to do was camp with family and friends at Swifty Creek in Red River Gorge, the Sparta Campground and Country Club, and in the Panhandle of Florida. He enjoyed creating cherished memories during those trips.

Above all, Tom was a devoted family man. He shared 39 years of marriage with the late Patricia (Horn) building a life filled with love, joy, and adventure. Together they raised six children: Thomas (Crystal), Karen (Gerald Salyer), Bryan (Karen), David (Lorria), Susan (Brett Boyer), and Jason (Allison). He was proud to grandfather to 24 and great-grandfather to 1.

He is survived by his children, grandchildren, great-grandchild, brother, numerous nieces and nephews, cousins, and friends.

Visitation will take place on Wednesday, May 7, 2025, from 3:00 PM to 7:00 PM at
Middendorf Funeral Home in Fort Wright, KY. Funeral services will be Thursday, May 8, 2025, at 10:00am at Blessed Sacrament Church followed by interment at Mother of God Cemetery.