Gary Beck Obituary

On January 6th, 2025, the world lost a remarkable man. Born on June 29th, 1943, Gary Glenn Beck passed away at the age of 81 years and 212 days. Every day mattered to him, and he lived each one to the fullest. Gary was a beloved son of Glenn and Darlene. He was a son of Runnells and belonged to everyone, having spent his entire life in the community that he cherished. He was an admired brother to Sharon, Randy, and Marta, embodying all the qualities one could ask for in a sibling. He was a devoted husband to Jeanne, his high school sweetheart, for 58 years. Together, they epitomized the vows and sanctity of marriage, living a love story for the ages. As a father to Jodi, Kris, Pam, and Ryan, he took immense pride and joy in his children, who reflect his best qualities. Gary was a loving father-in-law to Brian (Jodi), Brent (Pam), Tracy (Ryan), and Dave (Kris), treating them as his own. He was a doting grandpa to Vicky (Austin), Amia (Champ), Sami (Jodi), Keegan and McKenna (Kris), Hailey, Alec (Kelsey), Bryson, and Zach (MaKayla) (Pam), and Sam (Ryan), and a proud great grandpa to Noah (Vicky). He was a brother-in-law to Tom/Jerry (Sharon), Bob (Marta), Linda (Randy), Carolyn (Billy), Jerry (Carol Gay), Jon (Judy), and Jim (Doug), and an uncle to Darla, Darcy (Sharon), Shawna, Shane (Marta), JR, Rustin, Jared (Randy), Brenda, Brad (Carolyn), Shelly, Renee, Jeri Lee (Jerry), and Susan, Kyle (Jon).

Gary never met a stranger and was a friend to all. He proudly served as the Fire Chief of Runnells for 35 years and volunteered with the department for 42 years answering countless calls in the middle of the night—fighting fires, aiding at accident scenes, and providing help to those in need. He held onto the role until he found the right person to continue his legacy, Craig Thompson, whom he regarded as his own son, as much as his own children, and he regarded all the fellow Camp Township firefighters as family. He was a coach to many, neighbor, athlete, tire builder, super fan, golf buddy, card pal, mentor, confidant, jack of all trades, caretaker of Runnells serving as the City Manager for more than 20 years after retiring from Armstrong as a tire builder, prankster, and was obsessed with each blade of grass in his lawn.

Gary was a steady and devoted presence at nearly every event in which his children and grandchildren participated. His selflessness was evident in every aspect of his life, he believed in helping others simply because it was the right thing to do. Whether it was picking up a stranger on a cold winter's day or fixing a neighbor's water heater in the middle of the night, Gary was always there to lend a hand. His generosity and kindness knew no bounds, and he touched countless lives with his unwavering commitment to serving others. He was fond of saying, “Locks only keep your friends out.” Special thanks to Rev. Katie Russell Hainline for all her care and prayers throughout the years and to Sally Hershey, who was a best friend to both mom and dad. Her friendship meant the world to him, especially after Jeanne passed in 2021. Gary’s wealth was measured not in material possessions but in the countless smiles he gave and received. His presence was larger than life, and his absence leaves a void that can only be filled by the memories and lessons he left behind.

Gary is survived by his children, grandchildren, great-grandchild, siblings, extended family, and a community that loved him dearly. He now joins his beloved Jeanne, leaving behind a legacy of love and service that will inspire generations to come. The family name will continue on through Gary's grandson, Samuel Gary Beck.

The world is a better place because of you, Gary. Rest in peace, knowing your love and selflessness have left an indelible mark on us all.

Visitation will be 5:30-8:00 p.m., Friday, January 17 at Runnells Christian Church. His funeral will be at 10:30 a.m., Saturday, January 18 also at the church followed by interment at Lowman Cemetery.

Livestream can be found at the bottom of this page or here https://youtube.com/live/J35aypIQtFs?feature=share

Memorial contributions may be directed to the Runnells Fire Department or Runnells Christian Church.

Arrangements by Iles Grandview Park Chapel.

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