Becker, Esther Unruh (1902-1974)

Mennonite Weekly Review obituary: 1974 Feb 7 p. 11

Birth date: 1902 Dec. 6

text of obituary:

MRS. ESTHER BECKER

Esther Unruh Becker was born on Dec. 6, 1902, near Avon, S. D. to Benjamin and Elizabeth (Dirks) Unruh. On Sept. 3, 1917 she made a clear decision to accept and follow Jesus Christ as Lord and Saviour, which was symbolized through baptism and church membership about a year later.

She graduated from Boone Biblical College at Boone, Iowa in 1923 and went on to a nurses training program in Mountain lake, Minn. which was greatly enjoyed.

She established her earthly home with Joseph Becker on Nov. 18, 1925 and was transferred to her heavenly home on Jan. 11, 1974. Her memorial service was held at the Marion, S. D. Evangelical Mennonite Brethren Church, of which she was a member, on Jan. 14, 1974. Her earthly body was laid to rest in the Mennonite Cemetery.

Mother had a forgiving personality which created a loving atmosphere in the home. There are at least six persons whom she was instrumental in leading to Christ. They are us, her children. She gave each grandchild a Bible a soon as they were able to read. At the time of their baptism she replaced the worn Bible with a new one.

She taught little children in the Sunday school for many years. She was always ready to give an offering, or food and garden things to persons in the neighborhood. Her warm hospitality was felt by many missionaries and guests in the home, and her concern was shown to the sick and elderly by visits and cards.

She leaves to mourn her departure her devoted husband; their six children and families. Harold and wife Irene of Marion, Adella and husband Wilmer Nickel of Lennox, Raymond and wife Frances of Freeman, Palmer and wife Ardys of Newton, Kan., Frances and husband Gilbert Buller of Colorado Springs, and Goldie and husband Ted Weathers of Newton, Kan.; 22 grandchildren; two sisters, Elsie, Mrs. Reuben Becker of Marion, and Dorothy, Mrs. Arthur Graham of Daytona Beach, Fla.; and a brother, John, of Avon, S. D. — The Family.