Ralph Beck

Ralph W. Beck, 88, passed away April 5, 2018. He was born June 4, 1929 in Fandon, IL to Cecil & Lillie (Depoy) Beck. Ralph married Dorothy Kipling on August 22, 1948. He is survived by 4 children, Kathy (Ralph) Irish, Wendell Beck, Greg (Lisa) Beck, and Steve Beck along with 11 grandchildren and 17 great grandchildren. He was preceded in death by his wife, Dorothy, son Rick, brothers Melvin and Ronnie, and his parents.

Ralph was devoted to his wife, Dorothy, who was his biggest fan and always supported his music. Ralph’s heart was broken on February 11th, when Dorothy passed away, after 69 years of marriage. In addition to his wife Dorothy, Ralph had a few other passions in life. He loved his family, forever providing the laughter in the conversation. He enjoyed a good sharp cheddar cheese, often driving well out of the way to get some. He could wear out a vehicle with his trips to the “oil station” for his scratch off lottery tickets. Every Monday he enjoyed a pizza from Larry A’s. The occasional trip to the casino never sounded like a bad idea. No matter what he was doing he did it with a grin and a slightly off kilter hat on his head.

Ralph was also dedicated to his love of music. His music career started as a young boy when Ralph, his brother Melvin, father Cecil, uncles and friends would entertain the entire neighborhood on Sunday afternoons. Ralph and Melvin later formed the Beck Brothers Band in their teenage years, playing dance halls, clubs, social events, fairs, and even local television shows throughout the tri state area. Eventually, two of Ralph’s sons, Greg and Steve, joined the band. Ralph was a member of the Beck Brothers Band for over 70 years. His smooth voice, and beautiful music will be missed.

Ralph and Dorothy owned and operated a small general store in Fandon, and later in Colchester by the name Beck Sundries. For many years they enjoyed being a part of the community and most of all enjoyed the interactions with people of all ages and walks of life. Ralph was a quick-witted man that could easily bring you to tears from laughter. Both Ralph and Dorothy always had a fun loving, easy going spirit.

Through Ralph’s music and Ralph and Dorothy’s support of the community through their store ownership, countless stories and fond memories have been shared with their children. Both Ralph and Dorothy had a very special way of touching people’s lives.

A visitation for Ralph and Dorothy will be on Thursday, April 19th from 5:00- 7:00 pm at Jones Mortuary in Colchester, with private graveside services at a later date.

Visitation:

5:00 P.M. to 7:00 P.M. Thursday April 19 at the Jones Mortuary

Graveside Service:

Private Graveside services at a later date at Mt. Auburn Cemetery

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