Robert L. Beck

Robert Beck Obituary

Beck, Robert L. 91, of Chicago and Mesa, AZ; founder of Beck's Book Store, long-time Cubs fan, and recent author; passed away peacefully, surrounded by his family, on September 13, 2012. Bob was born in Chicago on April 9, 1921. After serving in the Coast Guard during World War II, Bob returned to Chicago, where he went to work at Faulkner's Book Store.There he met Nadine Wood, who had started working there the same week. After several unsuccessful attempts, Bob finally got Nadine to go out with him.They were married on May 20, 1947. In 1955, with a wife, two young children and no money, Bob left Faulkner's to start his own business. He began with a single store with orange crates for bookshelves and a cigar box as a cash register. Beck's Book Store now has ten locations and has employed hundreds of people during its 57 years in existence. Outside of his family and business, Bob's great passion was the Cubs.He was a season ticket holder since the 1960's, a proud member of the Mesa HoHoKams, and was often quoted in newspaper and television stories featuring long-suffering Cubs fans. Having lived only 91 years, he missed seeing the Cubs win the World Series. Bob is survived by his wife, Nadine; his children, Linda (A.J.) Olson and Phil (Janice) Beck; five grandsons, and two great-grandsons. He was preceded in death by his grandson, Arthur "Artie" Beck Olson. A celebration of Bob's life will be held at Bernie's Tap and Grill, across from Wrigley Field, on September 29, 2012, beginning at 7:00 p.m. In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made to Cubs Care, (773) 404-CUBS or Chicago Lighthouse for the Blind, http://chicagolighthouse.org/. Arrangements by Cremation Society of Illinois, 773-281-5058 or www.cremation-society.com.

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Published by Chicago Sun-Times on Sep. 16, 2012.

Memories and Condolences
for Robert Beck

10 Entries

Bob Petit Petit

February 6, 2013

Bob was mr.Cub to me and as a neighbor in Mesa we had some wonderful conversation. Irreplacable cub.

Marita

September 29, 2012

May the energy, love and courage which caused a business, a family and a passion to grow and evolve, sustain the Beck's in
their celebration of the life Bob Beck.

Frank & Cathy Kekstadt Sr.

September 29, 2012

Thankyou Bob Beck for all the wonderful things you did for my family! Also, just for being a great person! You will be missed!! Now in Heaven you will have the best seats in the house to watch the Cubs!

September 25, 2012

Bob, thanks for everything..
from all the Keenans

Tom Beck

September 18, 2012

Farewell Uncle Bob. God Bless you, Aunt Nadine and and all your family and loved ones. I'll remain inspired by your delightful sense of humor and love of life.

larry and jackie goggins

September 17, 2012

we've been very fortunate to know you and consider you and Nadine our friends. Many wonderful times and conversations especially about the CUBS. we will miss you dearly and be thinking about all of you. Our deepest sympathy and love Jackie and Larry

September 16, 2012

To the Family of Bob Beck: Terry Howe and I would like to extend our deepest condolences. Bob and his family have been long time great friends and inspirations. Many, many great memories and happy happy times, despite the Cubbies! Also, thank you for the book we recently received about his life. He will never be forgotten and his love of life, his family, and the Cubs will always bring a smile to so many! HE WILL be missed, but will always be with us.

PAM

September 16, 2012

Nothing could replace the years of joy listening to the best Cub fan's stories. My prayers and thoughts are with the Beck family.

KATHY & JIM CAJDA

September 16, 2012

IN LOVING MEMORY OF A WONDERFUL PERSON.
WE WILL LOVE YOU AND MISS YOU ALWAYS.
SO SORRY FOR YOUR LOSS.
YOUR FRIENDS, KATHY & JIM CAJDA

Chaplain Richard Reuer

September 16, 2012

I wish to extend to you and to members of your family my deepest sympathy on your loss. May the Lord's loving promises comfort you and give you strength as you walk through this difficult time. On behalf of a greatful nation as an expression of appreciation for the honorable and faithful service rendered by your loved one. (If you wish a personalized memorial card mailed to you with history of playing of taps, 21 gun salute, meaning of each fold of the flag as a keepsake, mail to: Chaplain Richard Reuer, Honoring Those Who Served Ministry, 1206 6th St SW, Minot, ND 58701. (This is a free service to fallen veteran families.) Please give name of fallen veteran. Thank you.

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