Becker, Rudolph J. 1884 -

BECKER, DESSEL, MEYER

Posted By: Bill Waters (email)
Date: 4/17/2014 at 09:51:16

The attention of Rudolph J. Becker is largely taken up by his extensive real-estate business, in which he has been engaged in Calmar since 1905. He is not only laying the foundation of individual prosperity but his activities largely affect the progress and upbuilding of his city, and as the years go by he becomes more and more important as a factor in the general advancement. He was born in Ossian, this county, on February 12, 1884, a son of Joseph and Elizabeth (Dessel) Becker, natives of Germany. The father, upon coming to America, located in Ossian at an early day in the history of this section and after having settled here two years engaged in the hardware business, in which line he still continues. The mother is also surviving.

Rudolph J. Becker was reared at home and in the acquirement of his education attended the public schools of Ossian and Calmar. He then accepted a position as clerk in a dry-goods store in Ossian, so continuing for one year, when he went to Chicago, becoming connected with the firm of Marshall Field & Company for four years, in which relation he worked up to an important position in that large establishment. He then removed to New York City, continuing along the same line, but only remained for eight months before he returned to Iowa, locating in Manilla and becoming manager of a general store there, holding the position for one year. At the end of that time he engaged in the real-estate business in Sioux City, Iowa, remaining until 1905, which year marks his arrival in Calmar, where he has since successfully followed his business. He is well informed upon local real-estate values and his judgment upon matters pertaining to his business is sound. His advice is often sought by local and foreign investors and as the years have passed he has built up a business which is extensive and assures him of a gratifying income. He has a handsome, well-furnished office, from which he directs his affairs.

In May, 1912, Mr. Becker was united in marriage to Miss Minnie Meyer, a daughter of Peter and Julia Meyer, residents of Calmar. Mr. and Mrs. Becker are the parents of one son, Laurence P., who is now one month old.

Progressive and public-spirited, Mr. Becker upholds all movements undertaken to promote public progress, although he has never cared to accept office. Politically he is independent, following his judgment in supporting candidates irrespective of party lines. His religious faith is that of the Catholic Church and fraternally he is a member of the Knights of Columbus. As his means have increased he has made judicious investments and besides extensive property in Calmar owns other valuable farm land in Winneshiek County. A young man of aggressive tendencies, he has become a serviceable factor in the upbuilding of his city and enjoys the high regard and confidence of all who know him. His career is proof of the fact that energy and industry will carry the day and that success is but ambition's answer.

Source: History of Winneshiek County, Iowa Vol. II Chicago the S. J. Clark publishing Company 1913