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Maurice Becker, age 87, of Albuquerque, passed away at Presbyterian Hospital December 28, 2008 with loving family at his side. He was the son of Gordon and Belle Becker, and grew up in the Catskill Mountains of New York State. Following military service in Europe where he was wounded during World War II, he continued college at Cornell University. He married Eugenia Wilkin of Ithaca, New York, and went on to earn a Doctorate from Purdue University in Microbiology. Although left a paraplegic from polio in 1952, Dr. Becker's accomplishments in his chosen field were many, and included setting up and directing State virology laboratories in both Maryland and Michigan. He was well known for his civic contributions in the DeWitt/Lansing, Michigan area where he resided from 1960 to 1987. After his retirement, he moved to Albuquerque, became active in the community and was named Albuquerque Citizen of the year in 1999. He enjoyed traveling worldwide and also pursued careers in writing and art. He published and illustrated numerous articles, and became a well known local artist. His proudest achievement was completion of an 8'x 20' mural at La Vida Llena, the retirement facility where he resided, which depicts many aspects of New Mexico life. Maurice was predeceased by his son Gary; brother Milford; and sister Dorothy. He is survived by daughters Sylvia Pow and Sheryl Savas; son Stan; grandchildren Chris and Lauralie Pow, Tanya Savas and Claudia Marbaix; great-grandchildren Gavin and Matthew Pow; and sister Ruth Moore. A Memorial Service was held at La Vida Llena on Wednesday, December 31, 2008. Contributions in Dr. Becker's name can be made to: Michigan Nature Association, 326 E. Grand River, Williamston, MI 48895
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