Howard "Fritz" Melvin Becker

Howard “Fritz” Becker died on Sunday, April 14, 2019, at the age of 94 at the caring community of Riderwood’s Arbor Ridge.

Howard was born and raised on his father’s dairy farm and ice cream store in Baltimore. Fritz was born fifth of seven brothers and one sister and grew up loving and playing baseball and was a die-hard Orioles fan. He played for Erickson’s Riderwood softball team until he was 91.

Howard graduated the University of Maryland with a BS in Business Administration. He also served two terms in the Marines before settling into civilian life and retiring from Washington Metropolitan Transit Authority working for Rail Car Maintenance in finance and budgeting.

Howard wed Kathleen in 1980 and they enjoyed many activities together to include singing in various choirs and many travels across the US, Europe and the Caribbean.  Fritz enjoyed singing barbershop and sang with choirs at his various churches to include Christ Congregational, Knox and Village Protestant Church.

Fritz stayed active his entire life swimming, walking, gardening, playing horseshoes and shooting pool.

Fritz has two children, Jeffrey and Melodie with his first wife Gloria and two step-children, Leslie and Spencer with Kathy. He enjoyed many family holidays and get-togethers with them throughout his life.

Fritz is survived by one brother Donald “Boze”, his wife Kathy, his two children and two step- children, 11 grandchildren and 7 great grandchildren. Fritz’s gentle caring and loving support will be missed by all who love him.

A Memorial service will be held at Riderwood Chapel, 3110 Gracefield Rd, Silver Spring, at 11:30 A.M. on Tuesday, April 23. Internment is to follow at Cheltenham Cemetery in Upper Marlboro. In lieu of flowers, please make donations to your favorite charity.