“Anyone can be a father, but it takes someone special to be a dad, and that’s why I call you dad, because you are so special to me. You taught me the game and you taught me how to play it right.” (Wade Boggs)

Robert Beck is a man who is deeply cherished by those around him. He is a wonderful father and a loving husband that is known for always introducing a spark of creativity in all that he does. Robert is a dad that taught his kids to “play” the game of life and play it well. He was born on January 29, 1924 in San Diego, California as the youngest of four children.

Right after high school, he joined the Navy Air Corps and was stationed in various areas, including Hawaii and Enewetak. After completing his service in the Navy, Robert met a beautiful woman named Joan. They dated for some time and have now been married for 63 happy years. Together, they have three children and seven grandchildren.

Robert has always been a creative person. He worked for many years in design, film and graphic art, designing brochures for a large hotel company. Even when not at work, he always had a different project to complete, whether it was a painting, woodwork or various other artistic crafts. When his wife’s birthday came near Halloween, he would always find a way to create something for her that was Halloween themed. Every birthday and celebration included a custom card and envelope. Robert even spent time making wooden ships, model aircraft or skate boards for the kids. If any of the children were running for office at school or had an event, he would spend time with them creating posters, decorating their bikes and more. He was an involved parent who always made time for his family and instilled a good work ethic and strong morals while with them. With him spending time helping with the kids’ school projects and events, and Joan working as a school secretary, the kids always had a parent nearby and available, helping their family to be a loving and tight knit one.

When not working secularly or on an art project, Robert loved visiting air shows and going on trips with the family. Over the years, they were able to take cruises to locations such as Hawaii, Alaska and Canada. They also spent time outdoors, going camping, or entertaining family and friends at home. Over the years, the Becks had several wonderful pets, but one stood out in particular. There was a local cat that arrived at the family home one day and made itself comfortable.

The Becks looked for its owners and were able to locate them to return the cat, but somehow, this feisty feline made its way back to their home, choosing them as its new family. The prior owners didn’t seem to mind, so the Becks ended up obtaining a new pet. This cat is still a very special member of the family and one that both Robert and Joan love dearly.

Here in our community, Robert is still as social as ever, always interested in spending time with friends in activities or in the dining room. He is affectionate and kind, often uttering loving words of appreciation to individuals walking by, and giving a gentle kiss on the hand to those who come to greet him. We can see very clearly that Robert has had such a positive impact on those around him. We feel grateful to know him and appreciate having the opportunity to honor him each day.