Paula Elizabeth Becks

Paula Elizabeth Becks was born on November 14, 1936 in Plentywood, Montana to Paul & Lady Ruth Claridge Preuss. She died at her home in Scappoose on October 20, 2006 at the age of 69. She lived in Medicine Lake, Montana until she was six years old, then moved to Vancouver, WA. where she lived until 1946. She graduated with honors from Junction City, Oregon High School and received her B.A. from Willamette University in Salem, OR.; and earned a master's degree in social work from the University of Denver in Colorado. Her extensive career in social work began in Seattle and she continued in San Mateo & Palo Alto, CA.; and in LaGrande, St. Helens and Hillsboro, Oregon until her retirement in 1996. For 11 years she worked with Children's Welfare and was a passionate advocate for children and children's rights. She married James Becks in Tijuana, Mexico on October 12, 1968. He preceded her in death. She has lived in Scappoose for the past 18 years. Her community service was varied. She served as President of the Columbia Health District Board, was active in the League of Women Voters, President of the National Association of Social Workers, served on the Democratic Central Committee, worked for the American Cancer Society Relay for Life, served on the City of Scappoose Budget Committee and participated in the Columbia Chorale. She worked for over 11 years with Children's Welfare and was a passionate advocate for children and children's rights. She lived a life of varied interests, including being a faithful fan of basketball and the Blazers, loved the Opera, attended Jazz festivals throughout the country, enjoyed river rafting, was a great bridge player and traveled extensively all over the world. Survivors include: Sister: Elinor Steele of San Ramon, CA.; sister-in-law: Martha Pruess of Lafayette, CA.; Nieces & Nephews: Debra Highsmith of Danville, CA.; Kim Eldridge of Pleasanton, CA.; Becky Lindsey-Anderson of Bend, OR.; David Preuss of Richmond, CA.; many great nieces & nephews. Memorial service: Grace Lutheran Church-Scappoose, OR. Saturday, November 11, 2006 at 10:00 AM; celebration of life following at the Olde School in St. Helens, Oregon. Private interment: Restlawn Cemetery; Junction City, OR. Memorial contributions may be made to the Public Health Foundation of Columbia County, P.O. Box 512 Scappoose, OR. 97056 Columbia Funeral Home-Directors

Paula Elizabeth Becks

October 14, 1936 - October 20, 2006