Verl "Blackie" P. Becker, age 85, resident of Manitowoc, entered into eternal life on Thursday, November 3, 2011 at St. Vincent Hospital in Green Bay.

Blackie was born on February 19, 1926 in Aniwa to the late Otto and Goldie Ingalls Becker. He served with the United States Navy during World War II, from 1943 to 1946, in the Pacific Theatre of War. On May 17, 1952, Blackie married Dolores V. Koplien in Weyauwega. He had worked as a heavy equipment operator for several construction contractors throughout Wisconsin. Blackie was a member of VFW Otto-Oas Post 659 and Operating Engineers Local 139.

Survivors include his wife of 59 years: Dolores; four children: Jeffrey (Nancy) Becker, Jody (Lee) Hagenow, Jim (Judy) Becker, and Jill (Paul) Rank, all of Manitowoc; one sister: Margaret DeBruin, Menominee Falls; seven grandchildren: Amy (Glenn) Andrews, Brian (Nicole) Becker, Bill (Connie) Hagenow, Bob (Lisa) Hagenow, Cole Becker, Olivia Becker, and Kim Rank; seven great grandchildren; also other relatives and friends. Blackie was preceded in death by his parents: Otto and Goldie Becker; step mother: Irene Becker; two brothers: Melvin and Lawrence; also many brothers-in-law and sisters-in-law.

The family will greet relatives and friends on Sunday, November 6, 2011 at the Harrigan Parkside Funeral Home, N. 11th and St. Clair streets, Manitowoc from 4 pm until 6 pm. The visitation will continue at the Harrigan Parkside Funeral Home on Monday from 10 am until the time of the funeral service at 11 am. The Rev. Zachary DeArmond will officiate with entombment to follow at Knollwood Mausoleum. Military rites will be accorded by VFW Otto Oas Post 659.