Benjamin Beck

Age 95, died peacefully at home surrounded by family on January 28, 2011. He was preceded in death by Emma, his loving wife of 58 years. He is survived by 2 children Judy Beck of Denver, CO and Jim Beck of Orlando, FL. Ben was born to Gottlieb and Ella Beck in Woodworth, ND, on July 2, 1915. He graduated with an education certificate from State Teachers College in 1939. In 1942, Ben joined the U.S. Army and served as a medical clerk in the European Theater through the end of the war. In 1947 he married Emma Jean Beck and together they went to Lincoln, NE to continue their education at Union College. He went on to receive his Master's Degree in Education from the University of Nebraska in 1951. Ben and Emma began their teaching careers with Seventh-Day Adventist schools in Texas. They continued to Plainview Academy, Redfield, SD before he became principal of Milwaukee Junior Academy in 1957. Ben inspired several generations through his 28 year career as principal and teacher at MJA. His devotion to Wisconsin youth led him to many fun-filled summers working at Adventist youth summer camps. After retirement from education, Ben, an avid gardener, began a second career at Marian Franciscan Center and worked until age 95 as groundskeeper. In 2004, Milwaukee County began recognizing Ben as the oldest worker. In 2007, although still employed, the award was named after him and he began presenting the "Ben Beck Oldest Worker Award" on behalf of Milwaukee County to other mature employees in the county. Ben was also a member of the Milwaukee Central Seventh-Day Adventist Church for 53 years. He served as a church elder and Sabbath school teacher for many years. For the past 17 years, Ben was actively involved in Central Church's ministry feeding and helping the homeless of downtown Milwaukee. His healthy and active lifestyle and his personal faith in God was a lifelong pursuit shared by his family, taught in the classroom, exemplified in his work as groundskeeper and practiced in his ministry on the streets of Milwaukee. Visitation at the Funeral Home, Monday, January 31, 4:00-7:00 PM. Additional visitation Tuesday, February 1, 12:00-1:30 PM. Funeral Service will be held at WISCONSIN MEMORIAL PARK, 13235 W. Capitol Drive, Brookfield, Tuesday, February 1, 2:00 PM.