Cody was a proud alumnus of Millersville University and a two-time NCAA (D1) Wrestling Championship qualifier. He passed away on September 17, 2025, at the age of 39, while bravely serving in the line of duty for the Northern York County Regional Police Department. Cody made the ultimate sacrifice, and this scholarship is one way we will honor his life, his impact, and the hero that he was to so many.

Cody graduated from Millersville University in 2008, after an outstanding athletic and academic career. Before Millersville, Cody was a star athlete at Spring Grove High School, where he was team captain and a standout in football, baseball, and wrestling. He was not only an exceptional competitor but also a model teammate and leader known for his sportsmanship, integrity, and quiet strength both on and off the mat.

As a Spring Grove wrestler, Cody compiled a remarkable 118-35 career record and was a (PIAA) District 3 runner-up. At Millersville, he competed at the Division 1 level, was a NCAA Division I East Regional Champion, qualifying twice for the NCAA Championships at 149 pounds. His athletic achievements were matched by his tireless work ethic, self-discipline, and unshakable commitment to his teammates and community.

After graduating, Cody joined the Northern York County Regional Police Force, where he quickly distinguished himself through his courage and compassion. Among his many commendations, was one for helping rescue a family from a burning house, which is just one of many examples of the selfless service that defined his life. Cody’s dedication to others, both in uniform and in daily life, left a lasting impression on his colleagues and the community that he served.

Despite his heavy workload after becoming a police officer, Cody also continued to give back to his wrestling community by mentoring and coaching the next generation of wrestlers in his hometown. He gave countless hours and one-on-one time to many which demonstrated his commitment to helping others succeed. 

Those who knew Cody speak of his unrelenting drive, his kindness, and his ability to lift up those around him. He was a loving husband and devoted father to two young children, ages 3 and 5. His family, friends, teammates, and fellow officers remember him not only as a hero, but as someone whose everyday actions were full of humility, strength, and heart.

This memorial scholarship honors Cody’s legacy by helping future generations of Millersville student-athletes pursue their goals with the same dedication and passion that he embodied throughout his life. Through this fund, Cody’s spirit will continue to inspire; on the mat, in the classroom, and in the communities Millersville graduates go on to serve.

 

Cody-Becker_seal_STICKER.png

From Family and Friends...

Pete Anders (MU wrestling ’83 – 85): “I met Cody 15 years ago, as he joined my friend Joe Jones and I on an overnight trip to watch PSU wrestle Ohio State. Cody immediately wanted to hear about coaches Swope and Hitchcock, then shared stories, all with a sense of humor, about his time on the mat for the Ville. Joe worked with Cody at Northern York Regional and was like a big brother to Cody. Joe shared two memorable sentiments after he busted on Cody for the better part of the ride to State College. Joe said Cody has quickly become one of our best officers, and Cody is “that guy” that when he shows up at a hot or volatile call that prompts other officers to say, “we got this, Cody is here.” My heart breaks for Jordan and the Becker family, he and his fellow officers saved two women from certain death by their sacrifice. This scholarship comes at a time when police recruits are at an all-time low nationally and in our region, we need officers like Cody Becker. Through my 20+ year career with Lancaster City Police and 15 years as chief at MU, I’ve observed collegiate wrestlers excel at policing as we learn discipline, teamwork, self-motivation, and humility. I can think of no better way to honor Cody’s service and sacrifice to his family and his community than to provide scholarships to educate and train the future Cody Beckers at the Ville in the classroom and on the mat. I ask our Ville wrestling alum give to support the Becker family, and Cody’s police and wrestling families, that Cody’s name and legacy forever lives at Millersville University through an endowed scholarship. Cody Becker is a Marauder for Life.”

Mark Bentzel, Police Chief (Ret.), Northern York County Regional Police: "Cody and I both graduated from Spring Grove High School, but I really got to know him in 2008 at a youth wrestling tournament. I asked if he’d ever considered law enforcement. A few weeks later, he came to the station, and we developed a plan. He enrolled in the Police Academy in January 2009, and we hired him that May. Cody did everything asked of him and more. It didn’t take long to see he was built to be a police officer—dedicated, hardworking, and a true team player. Less than a year later, he and Officer Pague saved a mother and her three children from a burning building, acts for which they were recognized as heroes. Cody’s love for wrestling and his time at Millersville shaped who he was. He mentored my son Mason, helping him become a two-time state medalist, and continued to guide young wrestlers with patience, discipline, and heart. Cody understood the similarities between wrestling and law enforcement—the dedication, grit, and teamwork needed to succeed. His sacrifice on September 17, 2025, will always be remembered. Cody lived a life of service, mentorship, and integrity. He was a devoted husband, father, and friend. This scholarship honors his legacy and will help Millersville find future students who live their lives in service to others, just as Cody did."

Neil P. Barnes, Former Millersville University Wrestling Coach: Cody Becker was a coach’s dream recruit.  An elite wrestler who always took care of business on and off the mat.  As a Coach, I never had to worry about Cody taking care of his responsibilities.  He always knew his role as a student-athlete at MU.  Cody understood he had a job to do, and he did it.  With his humble personality and quirky humor, you would never know for sure if he had won or lost a match, as he was immediately consumed by how well he had done his “job.” Cody was a person of true integrity and kindness, while always willing to help others.  He was also a leader on MU wrestling team without ever asking to be.  He led by example, taking care of his job and expected others to do the same.  Cody’s “job” ultimately resulted in saving lives and we will remember and celebrate him for the rest of ours.  Thank you, Cody for “Doing your job.” You did it the best.

Jarrett Hostetter (MU wrestling ’05 – 10)Becker was the kind of leader every team needs—always showing up with a positive attitude, pushing himself and his teammates to be better. He had a way of making everyone feel welcome, whether you were a freshman just finding your footing or a senior finishing your last season. His energy was contagious, and he set the tone for what it meant to be part of Millersville wrestling. 

The Det. Sgt. Cody Becker Memorial Scholarship shall represent a person of integrity, kindness, work ethic, and an unwavering heart to help others.

IMG_7815.JPEG