Michael Becher

Michael Becher died Tuesday as a result of complications from a recent illness, in Danville, VA    Michael is survived by his loving wife, Mira; his adoring children, Jonathan, Emily, and David; four doting grandchildren; and the enduring smile which touched everyone he met. Dr. Becher was a quiet, unassuming man but should not be underestimated. Few knew he had two PhD’s and a Masters. Fewer still knew he had traveled the world helping companies develop better textiles. And almost no one knew he spoke 6 languages.    Michael was born in Tomaszów Lubelski, Poland and also lived in Russia, Germany, and Israel. He was recruited to New York by Professor Herman Mark, a world-renown researcher in polymer chemistry. Dr. Mark sponsored Michael’s PhD at Polytechnic University in NYC and was his mentor for many years later. Michael gave credit to Dr. Mark for much of his own success.    In the early 60’s, Michael moved to Danville to help start a new textile company, Hanover Mills. He was plant manager for the initial location in Yanceyville, NC but over time the company grew to include operations in Hillsborough, Fuqua, and Danville. Hannover Mills became one of the largest independently owned and operated nylon and polymer plants in the South, and Michael rose to Senior Vice President of Research and Operations. Always wanting to stay active, after his retirement, Michael continued to consult for several textile companies.    Textiles weren’t just Michael’s profession; they were his passion. If he liked your shirt or blouse, he was likely to guess the material and the fineness of the denier. He was naturally picky about the fabrics he worn – it could be quite the expedition to find a pair of socks that met his high standards!    Michael loved classical music, reading history books, and learning about family genealogy. His kids remember that nearly every person they brought home was asked a standard question: “Do you know I can tell where your family came from by your last name?” He almost always guessed right.    A funeral service will be held at 11:00 AM, on January 6, 2017 at Townes Memorial Chapel, followed by interment at Green Hill Cemetery. The family asks that, in lieu of flowers, donations to be made in Michael’s name to either Temple Beth Sholom (129 Sutherlin Ave) or Danville Concert Association (P.O. Box 11284).