Obituary of Nelson R. Beck

BECK, Nelson R. of Saginaw, Michigan, passed away on Wednesday, June 25, 2014 at MidMichigan Stratford Village, with his wife and family by his side. He was 96 years old. Nelson R. Beck was born on July 10, 1917 in Pigeon, Michigan to the late Raymond and Hilda (Damm) Beck. He married the love of his life, Leona C. Licht on August 24, 1946 in Pigeon, Michigan; she survives him. Nelson proudly served his country in the United States Army during World War II as a Combat Infantryman. During his tour in the Army, he earned many decorations and citations; including the Bronze Star Medal for his heroic achievement in connection with military operations against the enemy in Germany on April 19, 1945. He retired from Saginaw Valley State University in 1982. Nelson was a faithful member of St. John's Lutheran Church. He enjoyed, gardening, wood working, hunting and fishing, but above all, he loved spending time with his family and friends. Surviving are his loving wife of 67 years, Leona; a son and daughter: Rob (Debbie) Beck of Dorr, MI, Barb (Lloyd) Bailey of Freeland, MI; five grandsons: Kevin and Randy Beck, Chris, Alec and Graham Bailey; a sister, Delores Kersten of Brooksfield, FL; a sister-in-law, Enid German. Also surviving are many nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by one brother, Duane Beck; a brother-in-law, Melvin Kersten. FUNERAL: A Funeral Service will take place at 11:00 a.m. on Monday, June 30, 2014 at Deisler Funeral Home, 2233 Hemmeter Rd. (off State). Pastor Tim Bender will officiate. Military Honors will follow under the auspices of the Hemlock - Merrill V.F.W. Post# 7302. Burial will take place at Cross Lutheran Cemetery in Pigeon, Michigan. VISITATION: Friends are welcome to visit with the family at the funeral home on Sunday, June 29, 2014 from 4:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. and on Monday from 10:00 a.m. until the time of the Service. MEMORIALS: Those planning an expression of sympathy may wish to consider memorials to MidMichigan Home Care (Hospice). Please share your thoughts and memories with the family at the funeral home, church or through www.deislerfuneralhome.com.