Jonathan Becker, 63, of Wildrose, ND passed away on Sunday, July 20, 2025 at his home in Wildrose, ND with his family by his side.

Jonathan Paul Becker was born in Amarillo, TX, to James and Shirley on June 28th, 1962. He spent the first part of his childhood in Texas until his parents relocated the family to Wildrose, ND in 1970. He finished school in Wildrose, graduating in 1980. He briefly attended NDSU in Fargo before turning to a career in beekeeping. He spent many winters traveling to California as part of that work, and acquired many stories along the way that he loved to retell over the years.

He was married to Laurie Fretland for 17 years, became a stepdad to her daughter Kayla, and eventually welcomed two additional daughters into the world, Kassaundra and Haley. During this time Jon worked as a Schwan Truck driver, delivering ice cream to rural Montana and North Dakota. He worked long hours, but never missed an opportunity to spend time with his family in any way he could. Whether it was taking trips to the library, playing catch in the yard, or building snow forts in the middle of winter, he always excelled in creating fond childhood memories for his daughters, as well as his many nieces and nephews.

In 2009 Jon entered treatment for alcohol addiction, completed recovery, and eventually went on to lead a few AA meetings himself. His family couldn’t have been more proud of his resilience and ability to adapt and create a life where he could truly thrive. A lifelong woodworker, his hobby took off during this time, and he almost always had a project in the works. He took requests from friends and acquaintances for different types of furniture, and even contributed a bridge to the park in Wildrose during the last year of his life. He was always proud of his ability to take reclaimed or thrown-out wood and craft it into something beautiful and unique. His works of art will be cherished by their keepers for years to come.

His final job before retiring was as an oilfield supply purchaser for Dry Fork Supply in Tioga, ND. He met many people in the industry, forming friendships with people from around the country.

Jon was diagnosed with brain cancer in December of 2024. He spent the next several months going through treatment while also doing his best to live life to the fullest. His last few weeks were filled with good food, music, friends, and love. He passed away surrounded by family in his home and workshop in Wildrose, ND.

He was preceded in death by his parents and brother, Timothy.

He is survived by his daughters, Kassie (Tyler) of Fort Collins, CO, and Haley (Marc) of Columbus, OH; sisters, Monica (Delroy) Rosten of Wildrose, ND and Debbie (Kirk) Bender of Pryor, OK; brother, Jim (Sue) Becker of Minot, ND; stepdad, Maynard Ouren of Wildrose, ND; step-brothers, Mike (Denise) of Williston, ND, and Garry (Ronie) of Trenton, ND; nieces, Brooklynn, Carissa, Kataira, and Winter; nephews, Blake, Jeremy, Josh, Joey, Kevin, and JP.