Richard H. Beck, age 81 of The Villages FL, passed away suddenly on Thursday, May 7, 2020. Richard was born in San Francisco CA to the late Lester and Eunice Beck.
Dick grew up in Manhasset, NY and after graduating from Lafayette College, he married Eleanor Steffensen. She was fun and strong, he was smart and kind. They were a good pair and they settled in Satellite Beach to raise their 5 children. Dick was a terrific father, coaching sports and actively involved and supportive of his family. The ’68 Camaro he bought for his teenage kids to drive is a fond memory and example of how he shared his love of classic cars.
Pop put his mechanical engineering degree and hands-on skills to work as a driver and lead for the crawler crew at KSC. He enjoyed being part of the shuttle program, and mentoring the young team there. In retirement, he continued to enjoy hobbies and friendships in Rockledge and The Villages. He will be missed by many for his quiet and kind ways.
Richard is survived by his brother, Robert Beck; children, Leslie (Ken) Castner, Brenda (Brian) Mahoney, Jeff (Lori) Beck, Denise (Dirk) Maisel, and Andrea (Bryan) Hainsel. Also 11 grandchildren, Dana, Matt, and Julie Castner, Ellen Mahoney, Jake, Sara, and Luke Beck, Emma and Zoe Maisel, Zach and Josh Hainsel.
Memorial contributions may be made to the Brevard Zoo, where Dick and Eleanor participated in the community build in the 1990s, or to the charity of your choice.
