“Jack was a role model to me…. He strongly believed in educating our community and so he would come out with us [humane education staff] to present at schools. He would talk about his dogs and about Animal Samaritans with such love…. I will miss him greatly.” — Diana Martinez, Animal Samaritans Humane Educator.
Jack Becker passed on November 10 from Cancer. On November 20, the City of Desert Hot Springs declared November 18th through the 24th Volunteerism Week in honor of Jack and his wife Lorraine Becker.
Jack was the Group Leader for the Hospital’s Division of Animal Samaritans’ Animal Assisted Therapy (AAT) Program. In 2012 alone, he expanded the program at Desert Regional Medical Center in Palm Spring beyond the rehabilitation unit, and advanced relations at Eisenhower Medical Center so that AAT members and their dogs could move freely about the hospital without volunteer assistance.
With one of his faithful standard poodles at his side, either Diva or Da Vinci, Jack also paid visits to special needs children in schools across the Valley. What’s more, he was a reliable volunteer for Animal Samaritans’ annual Critter Camps for children.
As someone dedicated to disaster preparedness, for humans and animals alike, Jack played a prominent role in helping disseminate Animal Samaritans’ Pet First Aid and Pet CPR education.
During the holidays, Jack made a wonderful Santa Claus. He played Santa to disabled children in classroom around the Desert. He would also take his dogs to The Christmas Store in Desert Hot Springs, where low-income parents could select two free gifts for their children and get their pictures taken with Santa (Jack) and his “canine” reindeer. Jack and his dogs were there from opening until closing, all week long before Christmas.
Instead of flowers, Jack’s family asks that those who wish to honor him consider doing so by making a donation in his name to Guide Dogs of the Desert or Animal Samaritans. To reach Animal Samaritans online donation page, click here. In Honor and Memory of Jack.
The entire Animal Samaritans family would like to express our gratitude to Jack for his selfless contributions to our organization and the community. Jack, you were an inspiration and we will miss you dearly.
