Carl Becker

Carl Rudolph “Rudi” Becker, age 65, of Ketchum Idaho, passed away Tuesday, February 2, 2016 of natural causes.

Rudi was born on March 23, 1950 and raised in Alaska. He spent most of his childhood conquering the wild Alaskan frontier. He loved to spend time fishing with his dad. He started to be involved in the family fishing business at the age of 10 and eventually took over the entire operation. He owned Seine Boats and Gil Netters for 40 years before retiring. He did it all, being in charge of fishing operations, vessel construction, maintenance, logistics, and crew management including many times under adverse weather conditions.

After a successful career on the ocean, his love of the mountains, skiing, and other outdoor recreation brought Rudi and his family to the Wood River Valley in the 1990’s. Rudi had a big heart and was passionate about serving others. He spent many volunteer hours working with Higher Ground. Higher Ground programs use innovative sports and recreation therapies to enhance the quality of life for our injured military community and our local population of children, teens, and adults with disabilities. He gave his heart and soul to the Special Olympics program while living here. Many that served with him relayed that Rudi could make a special connection immediately with those he served. He truly loved the people he sacrificed time for. Rudi was also very talented and shared his athletic talents as a tennis instructor for Sun Valley. It was while serving with Higher Ground that he was introduced to and joined The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints in 2011. His love of service and fellowmen were natural draws to the LDS church.

A memorial service will be held for Rudi on Friday February 12, 2016 at The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints chapel in Ketchum Idaho at 6:00 p.m. The church is located at 300 Spruce Ave., Ketchum ID 83340.