Late last year the City of Newport and our iNvolve community lost a very special friend, neighbor and leader. Ronald Becker was known throughout the city and especially in volunteer circles for his many contributions to Newport.

Ron spent most of his career in the insurance industry as an actuary. After retiring to Newport, Ron took his work experience, acumen and his own curiosity and offered them up to the community. He became very involved in a variety of volunteer activities. Ron was especially interested in following the City of Newport’s governance activities.

His contributions to iNvolve Newport are the foundation of our organization. He served as co-president and treasurer of the Alliance for A Livable Newport, “ALN,” for many years and was instrumental in ALN achieving its respected reputation. His deep passions for the community were evident upon meeting him. He was very generous to iNvolve Newport with his time and served on our Board of Advisors as we created our new organization.

Ron served on the City of Newport’s Trust & Investment Commission for 18 years. He would eventually receive a citation from State of Rhode Island recognizing his service to Newport. Tireless in his efforts, he supported the Edward King Center by helping to start its Circle of Scholars program and was a co-facilitator of the International Current Events Course.

His contributions should serve as an inspiration to those looking to offer of their time and talent. Many of our neighbors and friends move to our fair city in retirement, Ron wasn’t interested in just sitting back and coasting. Ron wanted to give of his gifts and he made many friends and admirers along the way.

Ron is survived by his wife of over 50 years, Johanna (Bannon) Becker. We thank Ron and Johanna and will always remember the many contributions to the City, and to iNvolve Newport.