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Michael “Mike” David Becker, age 65, passed away on Monday, May 15, 2023. Mike was born on December 20, 1957, in Excelsior, Minnesota, to Reginald and Norma (Geri) Becker. 

While attending Baraboo High School, Mike earned the Boy Scouts of America's highest rank and became an Eagle Scout; he then graduated in 1976 and enlisted in the United States Navy in 1977.  Mike served as a Hospital Corpsman in Okinawa, Japan, and in 1984 was named the Naval Hospital's Sailor of the Year. During his military career: he was also awarded the Good Conduct Medal, Navy Achievement Medal, and Airforce PM "E" Graduate Ribbon. He also received an Associate in Arts degree from the University of Maryland while stationed in Okinawa.  

When he returned stateside, Mike mentored boy scouts as a first aide merit badge counselor for Troup 55. After eight years of distinguished military service, Mike worked as a journeyman electrician, landlord, and handyman, among other occupations.

Throughout Mike's life, he maintained a never-ending love for the outdoors through camping, fishing, and cycling. He took part in, and won many cycling competitions, continued cycling throughout his service in Okinawa, and, after returning to the United States, cycled the coast of Lake Michigan and the shores of many lakes throughout Wisconsin. After retiring from his full-time career, he moved north to Winneconne and enjoyed many days fishing on the Wolf River and nearby lakes.

Michael is survived by his wife and best friend, April; sister, Monica; sons, David (Katy) and Daniel; stepson, Dale (Rae) Hicks; stepdaughters, Abby (Aaron) Haase, and Ashley Carpenter; aunt and uncle, Gail and Metro Palamaruk; grandchildren, and many more cousins and friends.

Mike was preceded in death by his parents, Reginald and Norma (Geri) Becker; paternal and maternal grandparents; and all other aunts and uncles.

Above all else, Mike was a loving father, grandfather, brother, and husband, always willing and able to go the extra mile to help others and offer sage advice. He was curious about life and maintained a thirst for knowledge by trying to learn something new each day. 

A visitation for family and friends will be on Tuesday, May 30, 2023, from 1:00 to 2:30 p.m. at Mueller Funeral Home, 904 E. Main St., Winneconne, WI 54986. Military honors will follow. A private interment will be at Saint Joseph’s Cemetery in Baraboo, Wisconsin at a later date.

In death, Mike continued to give of himself through organ and tissue donation. His decision will undoubtedly impact the lives and futures of others as it will improve their quality of life, made possible through these selfless gifts.  

Mike had an unrelenting love and dedication to his family and country and his enjoyment of the great outdoors; he will be sorely missed by many.

Those who remember Mike know that rather than saying goodbye, he would instead say “Keep smiling.” 

If you wish please submit online condolences to muellerfh.net.