Funko Meets Disney – Imagineer Bob Gurr Guests at Comic-Con Museum’s ‘Mask-O-Raid IV’

The man who put the “fun” in Funko is back again this year to put a few howls into Halloween.

Mike Becker became a pop culture icon when he helped create the popular collectibles company, Funko. But for the last few years, the San Diego resident also has become well known for hosting a Halloween party at the Comic-Con Museum.

Becker is hosting “Frightmaker Mike Presents Mask-O-Raid IV” from 6-10 p.m. Saturday at the museum in the Pan American Plaza area of Balboa Park.

For Becker, who’ll be dressed as a mad scientist, it’s a way to celebrate his favorite holiday while also helping the community, as proceeds from the event benefit youth engagement and programming at the museum.

“We really use it as an excuse for a fundraiser,” said Becker. “At the end of the day, it might be about Halloween, but it’s really all about the kids.”

Becker used to have the title of Chief Officer of Fun for Funko, but is no longer with the company he started. Yet he said Funko, which has an office in the region, is still partnering with him on the event and there will be raffles for highly sought Funko prototypes.

In addition, there will be a costume contest with prizes, trick-or-treat stations where guests can pick up candy or mystery prizes, an art show with pieces for sale, a DJ playing “spooky jams” and heavy appetizers and drinks, with one drink ticket included with admission.

Becker also will have a conversation with Bob Gurr, who designed many of the older rides and attractions at Disneyland, including the Matterhorn, Autopia and the Haunted Mansion. Gurr, who turned 93 last week, was hired by Walt Disney himself to help shape Disneyland.

“He’ll be telling stories on stage about building rides at Disney,” said Becker. “We’ve been friends for years … He’s just an amazing guy when you look at everything he’s done in the worlds of imagineering.”

Tickets for the event, which cost $130, are available online. Regular museum exhibits will
not be open during the special event.