Robert Ambrose Becker

Robert Ambrose Becker, age 58, of Burnsville, died unexpectedly on April 10, 2023.

Robert or Rob, as most knew him by, was born on Dec. 7, 1964, in New Prague. He was the son of Jeanette (Witt) and Ambrose Becker and the son-in-law of Betty and Leonard Cavanaugh. Since 1992, Robert worked at Eden Prairie High School as a school security monitor, where he connected with countless staff and students, building lifelong friendships throughout his time.

Robert started his career working at The Northwest Passage in his summers from 1986 to 1991. Then, at Midwest Aquacare where he spent his days treating many of the state’s nicest lakes. Robert took a job with the Scott County Sheriff’s Department in 1995 but went back to the job he loved at Eden Prairie High School until his passing. Robert attended Normandale Community College out of high school. Then graduated from Mankato State University with a bachelor’s degree in criminal justice.

Robert is survived by his beloved wife Cynthia Becker (Cavanaugh) and their two children, Jessica and Jacob Becker. Robert grew up in Union Hill, Minnesota, on a hog farm, and attended New Prague schools. He had six siblings including Linda (Mike) Hoheisel, Sandy (Tony) LeMay, Duane Becker, Sharon (Greg) Bornholdt, Kevin (Beth) Becker. He is survived also by his mother, Jeanette, his parents-in-law, Betty and Leonard Cavanaugh, and six sisters-in-law, Angie (Jeff) Wenande, Laura (Craig) Dahlen, Pam Cavanaugh, Deb (Ron) Oxborough, Sandy Cavanaugh, Becky (Quincy) Cavanaugh McHenry. Robert was preceded in death by his son Bo (stillborn at 20 weeks), his father Ambrose Becker, and his brother Mike Becker.

Robert was a dedicated family man who cherished spending time with his loved ones. He met his wife, Cindy, while working at Canterbury Downs, where they both worked in security in 1985. They met at Winner’s Bar on the dance floor. They were married on July 13th, 1991, at St. John’s Catholic Church in Union Hill and honeymooned in Ely, Minnesota, in a cabin. Robert and Cindy were blessed with two wonderful children, Jessica and Jacob, who were the light of their lives. Robert was a devoted father who loved watching his children play sports as well as coaching and umpiring their games. He was the #1 Dad in the stands when he was not coaching, umpiring, or volunteering time for his kids.

Robert was a sports enthusiast who played football, baseball and wrestled in high school. He played town baseball for the Union Hill Bulldogs, the over-35 team, and the over-50 team. He also enjoyed hiking, camping in the Boundary Waters, fishing, and his many ATV trips. 

Robert was a caring and supportive person who would do anything for anyone that needed help. He was known for providing daycare for an unlimited number of kids, including his nieces/nephews, and friends’ kids. This was also a time when Robert could show off his Donald Duck impression. Robert loved hosting parties as well as sitting by the campfire, as those were happy places for him.

Robert will be remembered as a loving and caring person who always put his family first. His legacy will live on through his wife, children, siblings, and all the people whose lives he touched.

Mass of Christian Burial will be held Friday, April 21, at 11 a.m. at St. John’s Catholic Church in Union Hill, Minnesota, with Father Eugene Theisen officiating. Visitation will take place on Thursday (April 20) from 4-7 p.m. and Friday morning from 9 to 10:30 a.m. at Bruzek Funeral Home, 610 East Main St., New Prague. Lunch will be served at the New Prague Golf Club after Mass. A private burial will take place at a later date.