Obituary of Robert Lynn Beck

Robert Lynn Beck was born in Monroe, Michigan on December 23, 1935.  He was the son of Lester Frederick Beck and Dorothy Pauline (Glanzman) Beck.  A 1955 graduate of Monroe High School, Robert enlisted in the United States Air Force on June 28, 1955.  He was stationed at Pepperell Air Force Base in St. John, NewFoundland, Canada.  It was here that he met the love of his life: Carmel Marie King.  The couple was joined in holy matrimony on December 27, 1958, in St. Johns, and he was soon honorably discharged on February 6, ,1959.

The young duo made their way to Michigan and were soon blessed with the birth of three children.  They received their spiritual nourishment at Trinity Lutheran Church in Monroe.  Robert was an excellent provider and not afraid of hard work.  Prior to taking a position in 1965 at Ford Motor Company he was employed by Monroe Steel Castings, Midway Products, and La-Z-Boy.  Working at the Woodhaven Stamping Plant as a tow driver, his career at Ford spanned thirty years.  A proud union member, he earned the respect of many fellow workers and served as a union representative of UAW Local 387.  He retired in 1995.

Robert was an avid outdoorsman, enjoying hunting, fishing, and camping.  Although he fished anywhere, Fletchers Pond was a popular destination for years.   Robert loved all things Newfoundland. He loved the music, the scenery, the food, the people, the culture, and his bride and her family. It was his favorite place, and he was definitely an honorary “Newfie”. 

He loved to travel, spending time in Northern Michigan, summer at Bird Lake, Michigan and many winters in Dundedin, Florida where he was a member of Faith Lutheran Church.  Robert was a talented trombone player, enjoyed perusing Facebook, and could be counted on as an amateur videographer/photographer to catalog as many and as much of his family’s escapades as possible. 

Robert Lynn Beck, age 88 of LaSalle, Michigan passed away at his home on Friday; October 11, 2024 at 12:00pm.  He was under the care of Hospice of Northwest Ohio and surrounded by those he cherished.  His passing was preceded by his parents; his beloved wife: Carmel Marie Beck on April 28, 2022; a sister and brother-in-law: Ester and Bob Knegendorf; a brother-in-law: Clayton Hoppert; a brother and sister-in-law: James and Janet Beck; a sister: Lela Naegele; and two children at birth: Deborah and Steven Beck.

To cherish his memory, Robert leaves three children: Debra (Gregory) Thornton of LaSalle, Roberta (Thomas) Dilkens of Lambertville, and Brian (Gwen) Beck of LaSalle; a sister: Phyllis Hoppert of Ida; a brother-in-law: Robert Naegele of St. Charles, Illinois; his brother in service:  Howard Rausch; eleven grandchildren: Amanda (Matthew) Hiatt, Zacory Beck, Levi Beck, Haleigh Beck, Megan (Lane) Zabawa, Thomas (Kelsey) Dilkens, Ilicia (Devin) Wiley, Nicholas Thornton (Rylie Petrangelo), Kelsey (Brett) Anstine, Kellan Rios, Kathryn "K.C." Thornton; nine great grandchildren: Eli, Jackson, Caleb, Maycee, Roderick, Millie, Vera, Blake, Cade, and two on the way; and numerous loving nieces and nephews

Friends may gather from 4:00pm until 8:00pm on Wednesday; October 16, 2024, at Merkle Funeral Service, South Monroe; 14567 South Dixie Highway, Monroe, Michigan 48161 (734) 241-7070.  He will lie in state from 11:00am until 12:00pm on Thursday; October 17, 2024, at Trinity Lutheran Church; 323 Scott Street, Monroe, Michigan 48161.  A Funeral Service Celebrating His Life will follow at Noon with Pastor John Carrier officiating.  A luncheon will be held at the church for all of those in attendance.  Burial will follow the meal at Whiteford Union Cemetery in Lambertville.

Memorial contributions for those who desire are suggested to Trinity Lutheran Church.  Online guests may leave words of inspiration and comfort or share a photo by visiting www.merklefs.com.