California Building Industry Association

Tribute to Ray Becker

2008 CBIA Chairman Ray Becker passed away Tuesday, Oct. 7. As a valued leader of our association, Becker leaves behind many friends and accomplishments.

Feel free to use this section of CBIA.org to post comments about Becker's life and legacy.

Comments

Robert Rivinius: Ray was serving as our association chairman at the time of his passing. He was a wonderful, talented, dedicated, man and association leader. Ray brightened each day with his presence and his steady hand in dealing with issues. He will be deeply missed by his friends and associates.; October 7, 2008, 2:36 PM; Reply

John Frith: I spent a lot of time with Ray this year as we made several trips to talk to newspaper reporters up and down the state about CBIA, its legislative agenda, and the state of the industry. In our time together, I learned what his many friends and associates already knew - that he was thoughtful and articulate man who was a passionate advocate for the industry, as well as an effective leader for his company and for CBIA. All of us who knew him will truly miss him.; October 7, 2008, 3:40 PM; Reply

Scarlett Vanyi: What an honor it's been to serve an association led by a man as thoughtful, warm, and sincere as our own Ray Becker. Ray was the kind of leader who brought eloquence, integrity, and depth of character to every situation. His leadership inspired us to move forward in the face of adversity and challenged us to rethink the easy answer to arrive at the right answer. His contributions and convictions made me so very proud to be a part of CBIA. Ray will be deeply missed by many.; October 7, 2008, 4:00 PM; Reply

Tim Coyle: Ray was a devoted advocate of the homebuilding industry and an unwavering booster of CBIA, particularly its members. At the same time, Ray saw progress in settling disputes -- large and small -- with homebuilding's toughest advesaries so that the important goal of creating more California homeownwers could move forward. Smart, earnest and good humored, he was emblematic of all that is good about the proud men and women of California's homebuilding industry. In memory as in life, Ray Becker is forever housing's ambassador of good will.; October 7, 2008, 4:36 PM; Reply

Michael Strech: Ray had the true gift of leadership, involving the right people and bringing out the best in them to make good decisions. Ray simply possessed the unique ability to make the difficult appear easy, a direct result of his approachable demeanor and great knowledge of our industry.; October 8, 2008, 8:10 AM; Reply

Sonny antonio

I first met Ray about 5 years ago. Always happy, always positive about life.

He had time to speak to anyone and everyone and could always look on the bright side of things.

He will be missed for what he gave to life, the Industry and to all of us his friends.

I personally became a fan of how he handled things. May we all be honored he touched our lives

October 8, 2008, 8:46 AM

Mark Rohrlick: I worked with Ray for many years. He was a man of great integrity, honesty and was an inspiration to us all. He maintained the rare ability to disarm and bring people together all while keeping a great sense of humor. The building industry has lost a true friend and he will be missed by all of us.; October 8, 2008, 8:50 AM; Reply

Cary Lowe: I am so sorry to hear of Ray's untimely death. I knew him and worked him for almost 25 years, since our early days in the housing industry. He was a great guy and a real professional. He will be greatly missed.; October 8, 2008, 11:21 AM; Reply

Patti Nolan Lento: I did not know Ray well, but admired how he brightened any room he walked into. I am saddened by his passing and will miss his smile.; October 8, 2008, 11:30 AM; Reply

Eric Flodine: Ray was a radiant personality. Big heart and positive outlook. The building industry is a better place because of him.; October 8, 2008, 11:34 AM; Reply

Lee Terry: Ray was a stalwart in our industry, a quiet person with a sense of humor and great integrity. He was a good leader and we will miss him greatly.; October 8, 2008, 11:38 AM; Reply

Les Thomas: I met Ray many years ago, "through industry" as they say, and valued him as one of the friends that I have had the privileged of making in this great industry. He was intelligent, articulate, he was a giver of his time and expertise, and, best of all, he was always upbeat, looking for the best in people and whatever situation that might be at hand. We all have lost a very special person with Ray's passing, I will miss him.; October 8, 2008, 11:45 AM; Reply

Caryn Spencer: It was my honor and pleasure to work with Ray during his tenure at Lennar. He was a wonderful, gentle man. I will treasure the memory of working with him, as well as his resounding rendition of Lennar's Little Red Hen in song.; October 8, 2008, 11:47 AM; Reply

Craig Beam: I had the pleasure of knowing Ray both as legal counsel and friend on various projects over two decades. Ray was first and foremost a gentleman and one was devoted to solving problems by finding common points of agreement with those he dealt with. I cannot recall Ray ever raising his voice, nor failing to acknowledging the perspective of others in his efforts. The quality of the communities that he developed are a real testament to his skill and patience.; October 8, 2008, 11:48 AM; Reply

Dave Dmohowski: Ray was an outstanding represntative of our industry. I recall a very touchy situation with Riverside County government a few years ago when Ray was working down there. Something having to do with a building moratorium. Ray was masterful in dealing with some very strong differences of opinion within the membership and effectively negotiating with an agitated board of supervisors.; October 8, 2008, 11:49 AM; Reply

Kent Aden: What a joy it was to know Ray Becker. As this year's PCBC Chair, it was my great privilege to share the stage with Ray, and introduce this year's Gold Nugget Awards ceremony. His enthusiasm for our indsustry was apparent by his words. His commitment to our indsutry was apparent by his actions. Ray's leadership will be sorely missed by all.; October 8, 2008, 1:37 PM; Reply

Tom Banks: What a loss! Ray's passion for his family, life and our industry was unquestionable and true reward to anyone lucky enough to meet or work with him. My heartfelt condolences to Martha and the kids!; October 8, 2008, 1:44 PM; Reply

Mike Winn: As far as diplomats and leaders of homebuilding go, Ray was unique. He was always open to new ideas, while being strong and articulate in presenting our case. The way he handled tough situations as Chairman of the CBIA this past year was positively masterful. We met a few years ago, as Lennar associates from different parts of California, and he never failed to offer a kind word or advice on a complex issue. His passing really hits us all very hard. Wish I had thanked him more often.; October 8, 2008, 2:34 PM; Reply

Bob Roberts: I am sorry to hear of the untimely death of Ray. I have known him for many years and he was always in the forefront of those issues that concerned the building community. He was generous with his time and insite. A true professional who will be missed, however I am sure he would challenge everyone to pick up the flag and run with it.; October 8, 2008, 2:44 PM; Reply

William Sacriste

My deepest condolences to the Becker family.

I will always remember how he went out of his way so many times to mentor, teach and inspire those of us who love this industry.

October 8, 2008, 3:25 PM

Paul Grover: Ray was an inspiration both personally and professionally - his gracious dedication to others and to our industry will never be forgotten. I am heartbroken for his family and for Martha who he loved deeply. Like many others I learned a great deal from Ray and will miss him. Thanks again Ray for all your sincere contributions.; October 8, 2008, 4:04 PM; Reply

Bill Turpit: I had the privilege of working with Ray Becker in the early 1980s when he and I were both getting started in the building industry at The Lusk Company. I learned then and saw many times since what a gentleman and trustworthy guy Ray was. I also got to meet Martha, a gifted vocalist of whom Ray was very proud. I later discovered that Ray was also a leader in his parish in Riverside, and I thought that if he ever decided on a career change, the ministry would be a great fit for Ray's skill and temperment. Rest well friend.; October 8, 2008, 7:29 PM; Reply

Mike McGovern: What a shock! We have all lost a true leader of our industry. I also had the opportunity to work with Ray in the 80's while we were at the Lusk Company. He was always a true gentleman and a skilled negotiator. He will be sorely missed. My condolences to Martha and his entire family.; October 9, 2008, 8:12 AM; Reply

Chris Spaniol: Ray was a great leader and ambassador of our industry. My thoughts and prayers go out to his family. Ray will trruly be missed.; October 9, 2008, 9:24 AM; Reply

Mike Brown: Ray Becker made a difference in the lives of people around him, including in the building industry and in the CBIA. I was proud to consider him a friend and to have the opportunity to follow his lead as he set a positive tone in the builing industry's response to issues, challenges and opportunities. I always looked forward to seeing him when events would bring us together. As we consider how we will act or respond in circumstances we face, let's remember to consider how Ray would have responded and act accordingly. Ray will be missed, and I look forward to working with others to protect and enhance his legacy within the CBIA.; October 9, 2008, 11:14 AM; Reply

Charnette Triplett: My deepest condolences to the Becker Family. I had the privilege of working with Ray at Lennar. He was always so kind to everyone. He will truly be missed. God Bless!; October 9, 2008, 12:06 PM; Reply

Tom Sakai: I had the opportunity to meet Ray about 8-9 years ago and have worked with him at Lennar and at his newest project in Hollister. My deepest condolences to his family. We've lost a true gentleman.; October 9, 2008, 12:20 PM; Reply

Evelyn OLeary: As we go through life, we meet many. Ray was truly one who stood out. His dedication to his work and devotion to his family were apparent when you met him. I had the privilege to work with Ray at Lennar, where you would see him wearing that famous Red Cardigan. Who else could you call Mr. Rogers? God Bless you and yours Ray. Smile upon us.; October 9, 2008, 4:23 PM; Reply

Michael Josselyn: What a privilege it was to know Ray and to share in his positive attitude, dedication to the getting the job done right, and the wonderful way that he made everyone feel comfortable and welcome in his presence. I will truly miss him and my deepest condolences to his family and colleagues.; October 9, 2008, 4:59 PM; Reply

Ward Lee: Ray was one class act. Always fun and interesting and always with a good joke. My pleasure knowing him. Diane and I send our deepest sympathy to Martha and the family.; October 9, 2008, 8:17 PM; Reply

Kirk Hartley: It was Ray's dedication to the industry and his true spirit of "Doing the right thing" in every part of his life that I admired and was privileged to experiecne. The business times were great and the long dedicated hours of sampling wine together was great. I will miss him.; October 10, 2008, 11:14 AM; Reply

Blake Hinman: Ray was a great man to work with as he looked for the best and realistic solutions to get the job done right. He valued the opinion of others and incorporated those ideas into solutions. His contribution to the industry was significant throughout the state and his influence politically and personally will be missed.; October 10, 2008, 11:27 AM; Reply

Lucy Dunn

One historian once said, "The hero is distinguished by his achievement; the celebrity by his image or trademark. The hero created himself; the celebrity is created by the media. The hero is a big man; the celebrity is a big name."

Ray was our hero. He will be deeply missed but we are comforted by many fond memories made with him and a legacy of success in homebuilding made by him.

October 10, 2008, 12:06 PM

Michael Battaglia: What shocking news! Ray was a true genteleman and leader. He will be missed by all of us. I had the privelege to work with him in a number of capacities through BIA. He lead by example and valued everyone around him.My prayers are with the Becker family.; October 10, 2008, 12:08 PM; Reply

Gregg Butsko: I had the previlige to have known and worked with Ray for more than 20 years on BIA issues and various land development projects starting with his involvement with John D. Lusk and Son on Menifee. Knowing that Ray was a man of strong faith, we can take comfort in knowing that he will be enjoying eternal life in Heaven with his savior.; October 10, 2008, 12:38 PM; Reply

Jeanette Justus: I had the honor of working with Ray in Southern California and in San Benito on school district issues. He was an exceptionally patient and skilled negotiator with district representatives. He will be missed. My condolences to the Becker family.; October 10, 2008, 2:21 PM; Reply

Frank Williams: It is hard to believe that Ray is gone. A couple of weeks ago in Newport Beach we were having lunch together talking about how important our health was and he told me that he was getting ready to go into the hospital to have a heart valve fixed not knowing that that day would not come. We never know what tomorrow brings, but I can tell you that I am glad that I am so fortunate that our paths crossed some 18 years ago when I first started working for BIA. Ray was such a great friend and mentor to me and so many others. He will be sorely missed by all and never forgotten! My thoughts and prayers are with his family.; October 10, 2008, 2:49 PM; Reply

Don Neff: Ray was a great man in our industry, a role model for many of us and kind to all. My first of many wonderful experiences with Ray were centered around BIA projects in Riverside County when I was a project manager with Woodcrest Development. We will miss his smile and warm and welcome greetings at our future CBIA functions. Our heart goes out to his family.; October 10, 2008, 7:07 PM; Reply

Steve Lloyd: We have lost one of the true gentlemen of our industry. During our years at Lennar and after, Ray was a boss, a mentor and a friend. I will miss him greately. My sincere sympathy to Martha and their family.; October 12, 2008, 9:20 PM; Reply

John Young: The loss of Ray Becker remains unimaginable to me. Ray has been my friend and professional associate for over 10 years and I have had the pleasure of following him through the ranks of HomeAid IE, BIA and CBIA, where he was a dedicated leader and set a very high standard of integrity for the rest of his associates to reach toward. My friend approached his industry and volunteer work within the homebuilding community as a dedicated man and his two finest traits were that he was honest and loyal. I will miss Ray's opinion and advice; I will miss my friend. My wife Maria and I would like to extend our sincerest condolences to his wife Martha and the entire Becker Family. Our thoughts and prayers are with you at this most difficult time.; October 13, 2008, 11:34 AM; Reply

Lilli Tippens: Like all of you, I, too, had the distinguished pleasure of working with Ray at Lennar. What a genuinely inspiring soul he is, giving of his time, talents, energy, innovativeness, and inspiration. Words cannot adequately express the gratitude I have for the positive impact he made on my career. I especially enjoyed his (and Martha’s!) musical and comedic talents, always bringing fun and joy to the workplace. Ray was, and remains, a shining star for all to seek guidance, as we follow our road on this earth. Blessings to Martha and the family, and thank you for sharing him with us.; October 13, 2008, 12:27 PM; Reply

Robert L Ozibko: I am shocked and sad at the passing of a very good friend and a true gentleman. I had the privilige to work with Ray and also have him and Martha as my personal friends. A great loss to the building industry and to all that were fortunte enough to know him. My sincere condolences to Martha and family; October 15, 2008, 7:37 PM; Reply

Don Steffensen

I recall very well the first time I met Ray Becker. John Lusk called me into his office and introduced me to The Lusk Company’s newest team member. That was the start of several years of the two of us managing a number of Lusk developments together in the Inland Empire. Ray became a very important and respected member of The Lusk Company. When Lusk decided to open a division office in Riverside, Ray was the logical choice to be appointed Division Manager. He was a great communicator and what I call a “doer". He was particularly gifted in working with public agencies. At that point, Ray became involved in the BIA. I had the privilege of installing Ray as President of the Riverside Chapter of the BIA, where he put his leadership skills to work. Ray was more than a good leader in the industry; he was also devoted to his family. He took great pride in his children and, of course, in Martha's singing career. The family will be in my prayers as they go thru this most difficult time.

After Ray left The Lusk Company I followed his progress in BIASC, BILD and CBIA, where he continued to use his leadership skills. Ray was more than a co-employee; he was a good friend you could count on. I don’t know why Ray was taken so young but I am sure he is organizing the angels right now.

So long Ray. I will see you later

October 16, 2008, 2:10 PM

Allison S. Tabor: During our legislative visit to Washington, DC earlier this year, I had the privilege and pleasure of accompanying Ray Becker on various political appointments. I was struck by his quietly powerful demeanor. He was a true leader, a diplomat and gentleman. I feel fortunate to have known him. My condolences to his family.; October 16, 2008, 8:19 PM; Reply

Diane Gaynor: I was blessed to work for Ray on several entitlement projects. The two of us often found ourselves in someone's living room or corporate board room as we "sold the benefits/not the plan" and followed Ray's Rules for Community Outreach: Hear, Say and then Do. He was always respectful even when other's where not so to him. He was firm yet fair -- and he always understood the big picture/end game. I will miss him so much. The words "Well done my good and faithful servant" were heard from the heavens when Ray passed on. I will miss him.; October 17, 2008, 2:42 PM; Reply

Maury Froman: It was my absolute pleasure of working with Ray on a couple of committees. His positive and 'can do' attitude will truly be missed by everyone who knew him. He was a great motivator and really defined what a true gentleman was. My condolences to his family.; October 20, 2008, 11:21 AM; Reply

Tim Piasky: Ray defined the true sense of the words "leader" and "gentleman". I have too many fond memories to fit in this small space, but what I do remember is an eloquent speaker with a great sense of humor that knew how to have a good time while still leading others to excel at accomplishing the task at hand. Our thoughts and prayers are with him and his family and friends.; October 29, 2008, 11:23 AM; Reply

Bill Devine: I had the good fortune of working with Ray first on some great development projects and later with CBIA. We shared some great times in this industry together over the past 15 years. Ray is one of those individuals you meet and always remember because of his class, integrity and warmth. Ray was a strong leader but lead in a way that made all those that followed feel like they were part of the leadership team. Ray will be sorely missed by many.; October 30, 2008, 10:00 AM; Reply

Ron Vallandingham: Ray was one of the first Presidents of the Riverside BIA that I came into contact with. He was warm and friendly and made me feel welcome. I was pleased to have him in the first talent show we put on for the BIA/SMC at the Mission Inn, Ray on keyboards his wife singing. I really enjoyed roasting him with a song I wrote and performed with the BIRays at Pechanga. He will be remembered and missed by those he worked with and helped. Ron Vallandingham; October 30, 2008, 11:41 AM; Reply

Mark Boud: Noone can beat Ray's smile! We at Real Estate Economics will miss him sorely. I loved working with him, and I'm grateful for the tremendous contribution he's made to our industry.; October 31, 2008, 1:52 PM; Reply

Victor Grady: I saw Ray at Jerry's Deli on a Sunday about a week ago. Ray was across the room, smiled and waved. He looked very well and happy with the world. He was always friendly and will be missed.; October 31, 2008, 2:14 PM; Reply

Todd Priest: I had the opportunity to work for Ray while I was a staff member at BIA/SC. Ray was always willing to help anyone who needed it. Whether it was one of his fellow builders or any of us on staff. I will carry many fond memories of Ray, he was my friend. My prayers and thoughts will always be with Martha and their kids. He will be missed.; October 31, 2008, 2:25 PM; Reply

Rick Neugebauer: Ray was the comsumate gentleman and leader. They is no doubt that he will be missed, even though I hadnt see Ray for a number of year his gentle approach to issues and people made him a champion. I well remember the Talent Show at the Mission Inn, it provided a cohesive element to the membership, what a great time we had. Ray will be missed for his gental approach to problems and people, God Bless to the Becker Family, Rick Neugebauer; November 1, 2008, 10:55 AM; Reply

Moriah Neugebauer: My heartfelt condolences go out to the Becker family. Ray was inspirational and respected. I will never forget the excellent example he set for me.; November 1, 2008, 11:48 AM; Reply

Susan Lindquist: Ray was a fantastic man! I met him while working on the Menifee project when he was with Lusk and I was with Costain Homes. He always had a smile, always had a kind word. God's blessings to the Becker Family.; November 3, 2008, 10:01 AM; Reply

Randy Hlubik

We first met Ray when he joined BIA while working to bring Lusks Menifee project to fruition. He was one of the young Turk's like Ed, Theresa and so many others that brought great energy to the Building Industry in the mid-1980's and was so much a part of growing the Riverside Chapter. At our Arrowhead Board retreat Ray impressed everyone with his tech skills by being the first to show up with a laptop to fine tune our Boards budget during the retreat. Clayton Record, who mentored many of us and guided the Chapter, would have been very proud of Rays many accomplishments at BIA/SC and CBIA.

I had the privilege to work with Ray both on the Riverside Board and help with some of his projects. Who will ever forget the BIA Riverside Tribute to Ray that Ronnie V & the BIRays (ake the Rayetts)put on at Pechanga ... although the roast was tongue in cheek humor ... our admiration for Ray was truly from the heart. Martha, thanks so much for contributing some great personal photos to help complete the tribute ... all of them helped us to know Ray a little better.

Ray was always willing to help when asked and Lynda and I are so grateful to have known him ... so true are the many fine things already said about Ray ... he was kind, helpful and a gentleman in the truest sense of the word.

Our sincerest condolences to you Martha and family.

November 4, 2008, 5:25 PM

Carol MacFarlane: I just learned of Ray's passing and I am deeply saddened. What a truly wonderful and genuine human being. I will miss his leadership, his mentoring, his subtle yet powerful demeanor....but most of all I'll miss his SMILE! My heartfelt condolences to his family.; November 4, 2008, 5:56 PM; Reply

Joe Sciarra: I never had the opportunity to meet Ray but reading all these comments about how this person touched and portrayed himself throughout his life it is apparent that it is my lose not having him touch my life.; November 6, 2008, 4:43 PM; Reply

Nick Slevin

I had the distinct privilege of working with Ray on his BIA/SC 2003 Board as his V.P.Associates. He was a natural leader, generous with his time. Ray had an enormous appreciation for the home building business and for life itself, in fact. He always made time to chat and catch up whenever our paths crossed. Our industry has lost a key individual, taken before his time. Ray was appreciated and respected by all who knew him. My colleagues and I extend our deepest sympathy to Martha and the family.

Thank you Ray and may God bless you.

November 6, 2008, 4:54 PM

Pat Kapp

I first met Ray when he was at Communities Southwest or perhaps even before and taking him and Martha to what might have been his first BIA event. I now read his "Builder" Hail and Farewell remarks. The entire cache of my memories of a first class gentleman come forth. What a remarkable man.

Hail and Farewell Ray Becker.

November 6, 2008, 5:38 PM

Mark Garrity: Deepely saddened by Mr. Beckers sudden passing, my heart felt condolences to his family and many, many,many friends. Ray will be sorely missed but never forgotten; November 7, 2008, 8:46 AM; Reply

Heather Loutsenhizer: Ray's passing is truly a great loss and he will be missed by us all. We have all been blessed by knowing and working with Ray. By remembering him, and sharing our experiences of his life, Ray will never be forgotten. I send my sincere condolences to his family and friends.; November 7, 2008, 9:41 AM; Reply

Michael Lennon: Ray had an incredible heart to help others. He was a servant leader who always looked to make others successful while providing a model of integrity, compassion and excellence in all he put his hand to and in all of his relationships. Our greatest tribute to him will be to follow his example.dja; November 7, 2008, 9:49 AM; Reply

Eric Shield: Simply stated... Our industry is better for his involvement, as am I by my experience with him and he will be missed. It was my privilege to have known and worked with Ray since the 1980's, both as a client and an association leader. I will keep Ray's family in my prayers as they mourn this tragic loss.; November 8, 2008, 11:32 AM; Reply

Peter Lauener: Ray was an industry leader. I worked with Ray for many years at the Lusk Company and was always very impressed with this knowledge and dedication to our industry. We will miss Ray.; November 24, 2008, 8:18 AM; Reply

Kamran: After graduation, I spent part of the sumemr in Colorado, working at Young Life Camp. Then it was off to William Woods College, where I pledged a sorority (Alpha Phi) and graduated as an Art Education major, with a minor in French. Unable to find a full-time teaching position, I was hired by HOK Architects (St. Louis) as a graphic designer. I got married, and then I got divorced. I met my current husband at HOK; Greg is a landscape architect/land planner, and we just celebrated our 29th wedding anniversary. I have been very fortunate to have worked at some amazing firms, including RTKL (Baltimore) and Walt Disney World Design and Engineering (Orlando). Greg and I lived for 18 years in Columbia, Maryland, where we raised our daughter, Stephanie, and where I was a Girl Scout leader for many, many years (all 18 of my girls earned their Gold Award, which is like Eagle Scout for Boy Scouts). Our daughter graduated from Salisbury University, and is now an RN at Baptist Hospital, Miami. Four years ago, Greg accepted a position running the Miami office of EDAW/AECOM, so we packed up our two American bulldogs and four cats and made the big move to South Miami. Currently, I am a senior designer with TGA Design (Coral Gables); we specialize in signage/graphics programs for the cruise ship industry, and have just completed work on Oasis and Allure of the Seas, the largest cruise ships in the world (lots of signs!). Life has been good.; July 6, 2012, 8:24 AM; Reply

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