Gary R. Becker

Gary R. Becker, age 75, of Novi, passed away September 14, 2025. He was born on May 10, 1950 in Detroit, Michigan, son of Wilfred “Bill” and Audrey (Book) Becker. Gary was united in marriage to Stacey Evans on December 22, 1973; they spent over 51 years lovingly devoted to one another and to their family.

Gary graduated from Northville High School Class of 1968 and went on to attend Wayne State University, where he first pursued pre-med studies before later shifting his focus to business. He began a career in sales with Emery Worldwide before joining FedEx, where he spent 30 years. During his time there, he grew from a sales role into a respected Global Sales Executive, building lasting relationships along the way.

Gary was a man of deep faith and had a genuine desire to help others. His spiritual journey began in elementary school when his family joined First United Methodist Church in Northville. Over the years, his love for both God and music grew stronger.  A few years after marrying Stacey, the two of them developed the music ministry at FUMC, where they poured their energy into youth ministry, creating and leading an annual youth musical that flourished for 37 years. Each year, Gary and Stacey influenced over 100 young people who committed their Sundays to sing, dance, and minister to congregations throughout lower Michigan. This ministry became one of the church’s most beloved traditions, and their partnership was a beautiful reflection of love, faith, and music intertwined. Having moved congregations and joining Ward Presbyterian Church together, Gary quickly became an active member of the choir and orchestra and shortly after, devoted himself as a Deacon of the church. For over five years, Gary faithfully led Spring Bounty at Ward, gathering food and personal care items to support local food pantries throughout Michigan.

When life brought challenges, Gary met them with grace and used what he learned to help others. After the tragic loss of his son, Major Andrew Becker, in a U.S. Air Force training exercise, Gary became instrumental in advocating for change. His efforts led to improvements in training programs and safety protocols for the U-28. In recognition of his dedication, he was invited to attend the U.S. Air Force War College as a civilian. He also helped coordinate large shipments of care packages to active-duty soldiers, a reflection of his boundless compassion and commitment to service. When his wife and soulmate, Stacey, was diagnosed with dementia, Gary drew from his experiences as a devoted caregiver for this journey, creating a workshop series for dementia caregivers, offering families guidance and support as they navigated the demands of caring for their loved ones.

In true Gary fashion, he gave generously of his time and talents to the Novi community, serving on the Novi Planning Commission for the past six years.

Gary also found joy and peace in Rogers City, MI, where he could often be found chopping wood or simply soaking in the beauty of nature. One of his greatest pleasures was welcoming family and friends to the cottage and witnessing them embrace its magic, falling in love with it as deeply as he had throughout his life. He was proud of his ability to complete the New York Times crossword puzzle in pen, a small but telling mark of his determination and wit. Above all, Gary was a devoted father; he was hands-on, supportive, and always ready with thoughtful advice delivered in his steady, calm deep voice. Known lovingly as “Pops,” he cherished his grandchildren and treasured every moment with them. Gary’s legacy of faith, service, music, love, and laughter will continue to inspire all who knew him. He often reminded others with a favorite phrase that so perfectly captured his spirit: “A blessing shared is twice the blessing.”

Gary is survived by his loving wife, Stacey; his daughter Betsie Becker; his son Skip (Mandy) Becker; his daughter-in-law, Shelly Becker; his sisters, Margaret “Meg” (David) Gilbert, Cristie Becker, MD, and Merilee Zane; and his grandchildren, Zephan, Mack, and Cate. He was preceded in death by his parents and his son, Major Andrew Becker.

A memorial visitation will be held Friday, September 26, 2025, from 10:00 am until 11:00 am, with the service beginning at 11:00 am at Ward Presbyterian Church, 40000 6 Mile Road, Northville. A luncheon will follow at Ward.

In lieu of flowers, the Becker family kindly requests donations to the Endowed scholarship established by Gary and Stacey in honor of their son: The Maj. Andrew Christopher Becker Memorial Scholarship. This scholarship supports future ROTC cadets at Embry-Riddle who exemplify the dedication, leadership, and service for which Andrew was known or to the Alzheimer’s Association.