Leslie Eugene Becktold

San Tan Valley, Ariz.

Leslie E. Becktold, 76, formerly of Minot, passed away peacefully January 1, 2023 at an Arizona hospital after battling compound health problems for several years.

Les was born December 9, 1947 to Edwin “Ed” and Hazel “Mickey” (Compton) Becktold in Salem, OR. He was primarily raised and educated in Minot, ND, graduating from MHS in 1965.

Les worked at the family-built and owned Big 2 Truckstop in Minot. Upon his return from Vietnam, he started building houses with his dad Ed, doing business as Becktold and Son Builders. Les was once married to Jerylyn Wolf and they had three children. He went on to work at the Minot branch of the USPS up until his retirement in 2009. He met his future wife Sue (Evans) in 1995 and they were married in 1999. Upon his retirement, he and Sue moved to San Tan Valley, Arizona, where they remained up until his passing.

Les served his country as a US Army veteran, serving in Vietnam from 1968-1970. He suffered a gunshot wound and was a purple Heart recipient. Despite the scars he carried home from war; he was fond of, and remained close to, several of the men he served with.

Les was a natural-born entertainer and loved telling jokes and (mostly tall) tales. In his younger years he was an avid bowler and softball player, picking up golf in his later years. He was a talented musician, and firmly believed that Elvis was King. He had most recently added the ukulele to his repertoire of guitar playing and singing. He was a master woodworker and craftsman, churning out everything from piggy banks and rocking horses to furniture and homes. No matter where he lived, he had some sort of workshop. Les had loving friends and family far and wide, his infectious smile and good heart will be missed.

Les is survived by his loyal wife of 23 years, Sue; children Jessie (Jim); Cassi; Cody (Lana); stepchildren Rachel (Shawn) and Zach (Tina); sister, Peggy (Ted); brother, Gary; and numerous grandchildren, great-grandchildren, nieces, nephews, and cousins. He was preceded in death by his parents, Ed and Mickey Becktold, and sister-in-law Carol (Gary) Becktold.

Per his wishes, there will be no funeral service. The family is planning a Celebration of Life Memorial later this year with details to follow.

Published by The Minot Daily News, January 14, 2023.