Novi Community Commemorates Major Andrew Becker

Novi Community Honors Major Andrew Becker with Memorial Service

The city of Novi is set to honor the life and legacy of Major Andrew Becker with a memorial service on September 26, 2025, at 11:00 a.m. at Ward Presbyterian Church in Northville. A visitation will precede the service starting at 10:00 a.m.

Andrew Becker, who was a 75-year-old longtime resident of Novi, passed away on September 14, 2025. He is survived by his beloved wife Stacey Becker, his children Betsie Becker, Skip Becker (Mandy), and the late Major Andrew Becker, along with his father-in-law Shelly Becker, and siblings Margaret “Meg” Gilbert (David), Cristie Becker, MD, and Merilee Zane. He is also remembered as a grandfather to Zephan, Mack, and Cate.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests contributions to the Alzheimer’s Association or to the Maj. Andrew Christopher Becker Memorial Scholarship at Embry-Riddle.

Tragic Loss of Major Andrew Becker

Major Andrew Becker, aged 33, was a dedicated Air Force pilot who tragically died on March 14, 2025, during a flight training mission while serving with the 318th Special Operations Squadron stationed at Cannon in New Mexico. His death was part of a serious accident that also claimed the lives of Captain Kenneth Dalga and 1st Lt. Fredrick Dellecker.

A memorial ceremony to unveil a dedicated memorial for Becker was recently held in Novi, attended by his family, local officials, and military colleagues. The memorial features a tree, plaque, and a stone bench inscribed with “Andy’s Bench,” alongside copper boots and a fallen heroes flag. His mother, Stacey Becker, and his wife, Shelly Becker, paid tribute by placing roses on the bench located outside of Novi’s Civic Center.

Becker’s Service and Achievements

Major Andrew Becker served for 10 years in the Air Force and was leading a flight training mission at the time of the aircraft crash. He had been awarded an impressive 22 Air Force service medals, including the prestigious Meritorious Service Medal. Over his career, he logged more than 2,000 flight hours and conducted 459 combat missions across various locations including Afghanistan and Iraq. He had been deployed nine times and was poised for a promotion to Major in the summer of 2025.

Becker pursued his education at Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University, where he graduated in 2007 and had recently been working on a master’s degree in space studies at American Military University. His thesis was titled “Defying the Limits of Outer Space.”

A Community Statement

In remembrance of the fallen hero, the community of Novi has shown unwavering support and respect for Major Becker’s sacrifice and commitment to service. Mayor Bob Gatt praised Becker’s dedication that was solidified after the events of September 11, 2001, which inspired him to join the Air Force. The cause of the single-engine U-28A crash is currently under investigation, with no prior issues reported concerning the aircraft.

As the community prepares for the memorial service, they stand united in honoring the legacy of Major Andrew Becker and supporting his family during this difficult time.

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