FRANKLIN GROVE—Father Anthony J. Becker, 93, died at Franklin Grove Health Care Center, here, Jan. 15, 2015.

Father Becker was born on Jan. 5, 1922, in Maytown, to Anton F. and Margaret (Meister) Becker.

Father Becker attended Pontifical College Josephinum and Seminary, Worthington, Ohio. He was ordained to the priesthood June 1, 1947, by Bishop Cicognani at Pontifical Josephinum Seminary. He later earned a Ph.D. in clinical psychology at Loyola University, Chicago.

Father Becker’s first assignment was as Parochial Vicar at St. Patrick Parish, McHenry (June 1947-August 1947), He then was assigned as a member of the faculty at the Pontifical College Josephinum, Worthington, Ohio (September 1947-June 1958), before returning to graduate studies.

He was superintendent of Boylan Central Catholic High School in Rockford (August 1960-August 1963); Chaplain at St. Dominic College, St. Charles (September 1963-May 1967); Pastor of St. Mary Parish, Elgin (May 1967-July 1973); psychological counselor, Elgin (August 1973-October 1976); Pastor of St. Mary Parish, Oregon (October 1976-July 1984); Dean of the Sterling Deanery (January 1984-October 1988); Diocesan Consultor (February 1984-September 1992); Pastor of St. Patrick Parish, Amboy (July 1984-September 1992); Director of the U.S. Bishops Program on Pro-Life (July 1984-September 1992).

Father Becker retired from active ministry in September 1992.

One of Father’s fields of expertise was the art and science of analyzing handwriting and he was recognized in 1991 by the World’s Who’s Who in
Graphology as one of 200 experts in this field throughout the world.

Survivors are a sister Hilda Walzer of Mendota, and several nieces and nephews. He is preceded in death by his parents, sisters Mary Margaret, Frances and Kathleen and brother Walter.

Visitation and a funeral Mass were Jan. 20 at St. Patrick Church, Amboy. Bishop David J. Malloy was the main celebrant.

Burial will be at St. Patrick Cemetery, Amboy, at a later date.