Becker, William Henry Born August 26, 1909, in Brookhaven, MS Died February 2, 1992, in Columbia, MO Federal Judicial Service: Judge, U.S. District Court, Western District of Missouri Nominated by John F. Kennedy on August 21, 1961, to a seat vacated by Albert A. Ridge. Confirmed by the Senate on September 8, 1961, and received commission on September 18, 1961. Served as chief judge, 1965-1977. Assumed senior status on February 8, 1977. Service terminated on February 2, 1992, due to death. Education: University of Missouri School of Law, LL.B., 1932 Professional Career: Private practice, Columbia, Missouri, 1932-1961 Special counsel, Missouri Insurance Department, 1936-1944 Counsel, Gov. Lloyd Stark, Missouri, in Kansas City criminal investigation, 1938-1939 U.S. Naval Reserve lieutenant, 1944-1945 U.S. Naval Reserve, 1945-1947 Special assistant to director, Economic Stabilization Commission of the United States, 1945-1946 Special commissioner, Supreme Court of Missouri, 1954-1958 Research Collections Oral History