John Francis Beck

Peacefully with his wife at his side on December 24, 2017, after a lengthy battle with Parkinson's disease at Tall Pines Nursing Home at the age of 82. Beloved husband of Bernice. Dear father of John Beck (Cynthia), Joanne Isabella (Gary, deceased), Theresa Shaw (Chris), Victoria Massingberd (Paul), Christina Donn (Doug) John Shaw (Karen). Cherished grandfather of Kimberley (Sean), Michael, Jason (Rachel), Melissa, Jonathan (Krystle), Christopher, Carolyn, Victoria (Mitch, fiance), Sarah, Justin, Jared, Daniel, Matthew. Loving great-grandfather of Henry, Mia, Charlie and Sawyer. Remembered by his brother Oliver Donald Beck (Patricia). Predeceased by his two sisters, Ruth and Anne. He will also be greatly missed by other relatives and many friends.

The family wishes to thank the wonderful staff of Tall Pines for their outstanding care and compassion especially Director of Care, Fatima Mohammad, Humber Court day nurses, Sandra and Sarah and night nurse, Karen, and to Personnel Support Workers, Prem, Dawn, Cynthia, Shirley, Maureen, Grace, and many other personnel.

John was born and raised in Toronto. He joined the Royal Canadian Navy, retiring June 28, 1957, as an airframe mechanic, receiving an award as Top Man. He then joined Avro Aircraft until it was closed in March 1959. John's application to the Etobicoke Fire Department was accepted shortly after. He found his passion and rose in the ranks, achieving the distinction of District Chief. After 33 years of faithful and dedicated service John retired in 1992. During this period he joined Stanley Lodge No. 426 G.R.C. and was appointed Worshipful Master in 1975.

John and Bernice retired to their cottage on Lake of Bays in 1994. During this period, he assumed a number of roles and volunteer positions including Fire Chief of Lake of Bays, Assistant Building Inspector, People's Warden of St. James Anglican Church and director of the Port Cunnington Community Centre.

John and Bernice shared a passion for travel and made a lifetime of memories with friends, relatives and family.

Visitation will be held at St. Joseph of Nazareth, 290 Balmoral Ave., Brampton on Saturday, January 13, 2018 at 12:00 noon, followed by a memorial Service at 1:00 p.m. Reception to follow. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Parkinson Society or the Heart & Stroke Foundation.