Gerald Richard Becker, long time resident of Broward County, Florida, died peacefully at his Parkland home on December 10, 2016. His beloved wife, Ruth Veronica Becker, predeceased him in 2014. Gerald was born on September 1, 1923 to Sadie and Adolph Becker on the family farm near Manchester, Iowa. Along with his cousin, Don Becker, Gerald enlisted in the United States Army in 1944 and served in combat during World War II as a member of Company D, 9th Infantry. He fought in the Battle of the Bulge at the Ardennes, Rhineland and in Central Europe earning a Victory Ribbon, EAME Theatre Ribbon and three bonze service stars. After being honorably discharged in 1945, Gerald engaged in farming throughout Northeastern Iowa. During the long Iowa winters, Gerald enjoyed pheasant and deer hunting with his sons and friends. In 1968 Gerald and his family relocated to Broward County where he became a General Contractor. He and Ruth established a plastering and stucco business in the Coral Springs area from which they retired in 1988. Gerald was an avid sports fan and dearly loved the Miami Heat, Dolphins and Marlins. As a long time Dolphins' season ticket holder he attended almost all of their home games and traveled to two Super Bowls including the perfect season. Unable to walk in his later years, Gerald's favorite pastime became "keeping up with the news." He read three newspapers and, when not watching sports on television, watched CNN, MSNBC and Fox News. He loved to discuss current events and politics with his family and anyone who came to visit. Gerald also loved family gatherings and playing the card games, "500" and "SCAT." He was a generous and loving husband, father, grandfather and friend who always put the needs of his family first. Gerald is survived by his children Shelia Smith, Billie Miller, Gerald (Gerry) Becker, Jr. (Linda), Sara Arrighi (David), Bonnie Pinkerton (John), Rick Becker (Sami), David Becker (Sandy), 23 grandchildren, 7 great grandchildren and brother-in-law, Darwin D. Ryan. Gerald is predeceased by his wife, Ruth, son, Michael, grandson, Michael, Jr., son-in-law, Eric Smith and son-in-law, John Miller. A Celebration of Life Service will be held at 11:00 AM on Saturday, December 17, 2016 at All Saints Lutheran Church in Tamarac, Florida. In lieu of flowers donations may be sent to the American Legion scholarship fund, Post 45 at 204 N. Franklin St, Manchester, Iowa 52057. Arrangements entrusted to KRAER FUNERAL HOME AND CREMATION CENTER 1655 University Dr., Coral Springs, FL. Please send online condolences to www.kraeercoralsprings.com