FREEBURG — In 1948, Joe and Edna Becker took the big step to incorporate their woodworking business, Becker Millwork & Hardware. Lumber could be ordered and picked up at 305 W. Walker St., Freeburg, or it could be delivered from there in the family station wagon, often by Edna Becker.

Becker Millwork remains in the same place today, but, as is the case with most successful enterprises, there’s more to it than when it started. It’s now a full-line lumber yard and hardware store serving contractors and homeowners in Osage, Maries, Phelps, and Cole counties.

The late Joe Becker (1915-1991) came from a family of excellent woodworkers. The first products out the door in exchange for dollars were custom-made cabinets. There was a good deal of decorative lathing, planning, and custom carving involved; hence, the “Millwork” on the shingle. Joe was also a savvy businessman, dedicated to understanding his customers’ needs and providing excellent products and services.

Joe and Edna (1922-2015) deliberately cultivated the idea of family business. Early on, they trained and encouraged their children to contribute to the lumberyard. Sons Richard, David, and Delbert, and daughter, Kristie (Miller), each had their own unique role at the lumberyard, and they continued the business when Joe and Edna retired. The second generation successfully grew the business, expanding the products offered and the customer base while maintaining a reputation for excellent customer service. Richard’s wife (Brenda) and David’s sons (Todd and Rockie) also joined the family business during this time.

Today, Brenda and Todd still help run the lumberyard, joined by Richard and Brenda’s daughter, Paige Becker Lafferty, who stepped up to fill her dad’s shoes after Richard passed away in 2019. Following Kristie’s retirement from the business, her daughter, Amy Miller, joined the third generation, carrying on the family legacy. When customers visit Becker Millwork now, they will find an experienced team to serve them. In addition to Becker family members, there are 13 employees, some of whom have been with the company since Joe and Edna’s days. Everyone has an important role to play in making sure the best products are delivered to customers on time and at the best price.

Being a generous partner to the community is also important at Becker Millwork. When you help families build their dream homes and partner with the contractors who build those homes, you get to know a lot of people over an extended period of time. “When those people come back for their next home or building project, it is a real source of pride,” Paige said.

“When we help a family who worked with our parents or grandparents, we especially want to make sure we are honoring our family by continuing to deliver exceptional service,” Amy added.

A combination 75th anniversary and Christmas party was held on Saturday, Dec. 16, at the Freeburg store. “Breakfast with Santa” expressed appreciation for all the Becker Millwork customers over the years. Just over 100 visitors, including 38 good little girls and boys showed up to join the celebration and see Santa.

“We never could have done it without your support,” was the Beckers’ published statement of gratitude.

However, appreciation clearly ran both ways as stories were swapped and families enjoyed a hot breakfast and visited with Santa.