Barbara Ann (Brinkman) Becker

Barbara Ann (Brinkman) Becker, age 84, passed away peacefully on October 10, 2023 in Denver, CO after a long battle with dementia. She was predeceased by her husband of 58 years Frank J. Becker who died on November 28, 2018. 

Barbara was born on October 29, 1938 in Olpe, KS, the daughter of Paul and Delphine Brinkman (Brown). She married Frank on June 4, 1960 in Olpe, KS. 

Survivors include her daughters Paula Trent (Tempe, AZ), Connie Grismer (Chandler, AZ), Ann Logan and husband Liam (Denver, CO) and her son Frank X. Becker II (Steamboat Springs, CO). Surviving grandchildren include Courtney Ignelzi and husband Griffin, Carly Trent, Caroline Zachary and husband Bryce; Parker Grismer; Katie, Conor and Sean Logan, and Frank J. II, Jack, Anna, Audrey and Brynn Becker. Surviving siblings include Ron Brinkman and wife Connie (Steamboat Springs, CO) and Marvin Brinkman and wife Cindy (Emporia, KS) and brother-in-law John Pounder (Monument, CO). She was preceded in death by her parents, her brother Del Brinkman and her sister Rosie Pounder. 

Funeral services for Barbara will be held at Corpus Christi Catholic Church in Lawrence, KS on Monday, November 6.  A Rosary will be prayed at 10 a.m. with visitation to follow. The funeral Mass will be held at 11 a.m. with Reception to follow in the fellowship hall. Inurnment will follow in the afternoon at Pioneer Cemetery.

Barbara graduated in 1960 from Emporia State University with a BS in Education. She was a member of the Sigma Sigma Sigma Sorority. Over the years after graduation, she served Emporia State on several boards. Barbara believed in giving back to her community in Olpe, El Dorado and Lawrence. Barbara was a supporter of the arts and athletics and was an avid fan of all KU sports. She would wave the wheat after every Jayhawk victory. Barbara was a devoted daughter, sister, wife, mother, grandmother and friend, and will be truly missed. Her spirit and the spirit of her ancestors walks with us.

The family would like to express their appreciation for the devotion and care Barbara received from the caregivers at The Ridge at Pinehurst and Optimal Hospice. The support they provided to Barbara and the family was a crucial part of her comfort and wellbeing in her final years. They are forever in our hearts. 

In lieu of flowers, the family suggests memorials in Barbara’s name to your local Alzheimer’s Association or to the Barbara Becker Donor Advised Fund – Scholarship at Emporia State University.