HATTERAS — George Becker, born on October 30, 1927, passed away peacefully at home on Hatteras Island, surrounded by people who loved him. He was 96 years old. George immigrated to the United States in 1957, at the age of 30. He lived in Cleveland, Pittsburgh, and then Richmond before settling on Hatteras Island.
A beachcomber at heart, George visited many southern beaches before finding his beloved Hatteras, where he truly felt at home. His passion for the beach and its preservation was well known, and in 1998, he was honored with the Governor’s Award for Citizenship in recognition of his Outstanding Volunteer Service in North Carolina. He spent years collecting trash from the shores. He also received an award from the Hatteras Village Civic Association for valuable service. He would often say he lived in a little piece of paradise, and he helped to make it so.
Fluent in German, French, and English, George had a wonderful sense of humor and loved to make silly puns. One of his favorites was calling Meals on Wheels “Meals on Cows,” explaining that cows are veals, with a playful nod to the German pronunciation of W as V. Hats off to Marlo Clegg and Hatteras Island Meals for going beyond providing meals for George. They are the eyes and ears of our elderly and disabled.
In Cleveland, Pittsburgh, and Richmond, George worked as a photo refinisher before the days of Photoshop, transforming photographs with his skilled hands. In addition to his professional work, he was a wonderful painter and artist, leaving behind a legacy of creativity. An avid lover of opera, George started the first and only Opera Club in Hatteras Village. Many in the community will fondly remember the Friday afternoons spent watching DVDs of opera performances with George, sharing in his deep appreciation for the art form.
George is survived by his nephew Frank Becker, his niece Babette Tilgner, and their children Petra, Fabian, Selina, Florian, and Sebastian, all from Berlin, Germany. He is also survived by his close friend, Penny Freeland. He was predeceased by his brother, Claus Becker, and his long-time friend, John Hancock. His life was also touched by the wonderful end-of-life care provided by Scott Scherrer and Rosa Alice Mayo, whose dedication, love, and kindness brought comfort to his final days. As they gave him tender care, he showed them graciousness and gratitude.
Heartfelt thanks are extended to Adoration, particularly his nurse Donna Odom, his social worker Kathryn Hannah, and his personal caregiver Latesha Drake. Deep gratitude goes to Dare County Social Services, including his personal caregivers Pam and Liz, his home manager Lena Edmond, and his social worker Casi Robinson, who cared for him very much. Sincere thanks are also given to Linda O’Neil and the wonderful people of Hatteras Village for feeding and tending to George through the years. Their kindness and dedication have made a significant difference in his life, and their support is profoundly appreciated.
George will be remembered for his quiet strength, gentle spirit, and the warmth he brought to those who knew him. He lived a long and full life, leaving behind cherished memories for his family and friends. A private memorial service will be held in the fall. In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made to a charity of your choice in George’s name.
Share a fond memory of George or an expression of sympathy at www.gallopfuneralservices.com. Gallop Funeral Services, Inc. was entrusted with arrangements.
