Harold Edward Beck

On June 13th, 2024, Harold Edward Beck passed away peacefully at the age of 100 in Visalia, Ca. Harold was born March 3rd, 1924 to Isaac and Anna Beck in Tulare, CA where he lived his entire life. He was the last surviving member of his family. His parents and siblings Helen, Don and Margaret have all gone to rest prior to his passing. Harold grew up in Tulare and attended Tulare schools. He graduated from Tulare Union High School in 1941. He went on to attend College of Sequoias and then he enlisted into the United States Naval Academy where he became an Officer. He served his country for four years and was very proud of his service to his country. He had many fond memories of his school days. He played football in High School and College, his love for sports has been passed down to all of his family. He loved a good prank or two and enjoyed telling stories to his kids and grandkids. While in High School he met his sweetheart, Jeanne Drilling, and married her August 12th,1944. They made their home in Tulare and started their family in 1947 with their first son followed by four more boys and one daughter over the next twelve years. Harold's father Isaac opened a car dealership, Sturgeon and Beck, with his friend Kenny Sturgeon in 1926. Harold worked in the business as a young boy and became a partner with his brother, Don. They passed the business down to the third generation of their families. The dealership sold in 2019 after 93 years in the car business. Harold retired in 2009 to spend more time at the vacation home he and Jeanne owned in Pismo Beach, CA. The love of the coast was started by his father. Vacations were spent in Pismo from an early age for Harold and his siblings. His father sent them to the coast to escape the valley heat during the summer. The love for the coast was passed down to his family as well. Summers wouldn't be complete without our August family reunion in Pismo. There was always a competition to watch during beach time. He loved poker night with his buddies, dove hunting with the boys, clam digging at the coast with his kids and baseball games. He coached little league and was a very supportive booster to all the local sports programs. He was a loyal Dodger fan and took many trips with his boys to watch them play. Even during his final years, he never missed a televised game. The best games were against the SF Giants. Family banter occurred as some of the family became Giants fans. Baseball was another love that has been passed on to the next generations. His love for his family has been his greatest accomplishment! He and Jeanne loved spending time with their kids and their families. They went to every sporting event of their children and grandchildren and never missed a birthday party or special holiday with family. Harold was preceded in death by his wife, one grandson and one great grandson. He is survived by five sons, John Beck (Kathy), Dick Beck (Angela), Dennis Beck (Pam), Bruce Beck (Debby), Tom Beck (Kim), one daughter, Linda Henry, eighteen grandchildren, thirty-five great grandchildren and one great great grandchild. A graveside family service will be held at a later date.