Wayne A. Becker

Wayne A. Becker, age 85 of Apple Valley, a longtime Anatomy and Physiology Instructor at Normandale Community College, died peacefully on Friday evening, February 14, 2025.

Wayne Allan, the son of Herman and Ella (Randen) Becker, was born in Mankato, Minnesota on April 7, 1939. Wayne grew up on the family farm in St. Peter and graduated from St. Peter High School. He then continued his education at Gustavus Adolphus where he received his Bachelor of Science Degree in Biology. Wayne then pursed his advanced Degree’s and later graduated with a Master’s Degree in Art from Mankato State. Wayne began teaching high school in Pine Island, Minnesota, and later accepted the Anatomy/Physiology and Environmental Science teaching position at Normandale Community College during its second year of existence. Wayne continued to instruct countless students over the years, and never forgot their names. He truly loved his students, and was the type of instructor that always had his door open to make sure everyone excelled the best they could. With this, he created a massive impact on health care education in the State of Minnesota.

On June 17, 1967, Wayne was united in marriage to Bernice Flaschenriem. They lived in multiple locations before settling in Apple Valley where they’ve called home for fifty-six years. He loved the art of photography, kite flying, coaching summer soccer in the late 70’s, and enjoyed spending countless hours reading. No matter what Bernie dreamt of building, Wayne always took the initiative to design and build exactly what she was looking for. Over the years, he and Bernie enjoyed feeding the birds in their back yard, often times getting out-smarted by the squirrels, and tending to their gardens. He was a longtime member of Good Shepherd Lutheran Church in Burnsville.

He was preceded in death by his parents; and by his sister, Joyce Westphal.

Wayne is survived by his loving wife of fifty-seven years, Bernice; sons, Troy (Amanda) Becker and Jason (Karen) Becker; grandchildren, Chloe, Lily, Dylan, Sophia, and Lucas; and by many other relatives and friends.

A Celebration of Wayne’s Life will be held at 11am on Saturday, March 8, 2025, at Good Shepherd Lutheran Church, 151 East County Rd 42, in Burnsville, with Pastor Dan Walters officiating. Private family interment will be held at a later date.

Family and friends are cordially invited to a visitation for one hour prior to the service, and to a light reception immediately following the service, all at church on Saturday, March 8, 2025.

In lieu of flowers, Wayne’s family kindly requests memorials be made to the Dementia Society of America (https://www.dementiasociety.org/donate) in his memory.

Arrangements are being completed by Henry W. Anderson Mortuary of Apple Valley.