Betty Becker, 85, of Mt. Pleasant, peacefully passed away Monday, May 24, 2021, at University of Iowa Hospital in Iowa City, Iowa.
Betty was born July 31, 1935, in Williamsburg, Iowa, the daughter of Herbert and Velva (Jones) Rusbult. She graduated from Williamsburg High School and from the University of Iowa with a degree in Vocal Music. On October 5, 1968, Betty was united in marriage to John (Jack) Becker in Mount Pleasant.
She taught vocal music at WACO High School from 1962-1978. During that time Betty and Jack started taking in teenage foster children through the request of their pastor who was working with a young person whose mother was dying of cancer. This led to a life time commitment to help others in need of support. In 1978 Betty and Jack decided it was time to take on new adventures and moved to Breckenridge, Colorado. They owned and operated Fatty’s Pizzeria for several years. After they sold the restaurant Betty worked for the Bank of Breckenridge in marketing. She also directed the choir at Father Dyer United Methodist Church for several years and was a very active volunteer in the Breckenridge Resort Chamber.
In 1990 Betty and Jack returned to Mount Pleasant. Betty continued to work with children as a social worker for Young House Family Service until retiring in 2005. She was a member of the First Presbyterian Church, P.E.O. Chapter NZ and the Old Socks Club. She enjoyed being a foster parent for many children over the years. Betty also served as choir director at St. Alphonsus Catholic Church, a job she dearly loved and whose members were very supportive of her.
Betty is survived by her husband Jack of Mount Pleasant; two nieces: Susan Haughton, Karen Rein; and many foster children. She was preceded in death by her parents, a niece Diane Hawkins, and a foster son Kevin Frost.
Visitation will begin a 10:00 am at the First Presbyterian Church on Saturday, May 29, 2021, with a Celebration of Life service beginning at 11:30 am. Pastor Trey Hegar will officiate. A private graveside service will be held in the Forest Home Cemetery.
In lieu of flowers a memorial fund has been established for First Presbyterian Church and or St. Alphonsus Catholic Church music program. The Olson-Powell Memorial Chapel is caring for Betty and her family. www.powellfuneralhomes.com