Perry Gage Beck

It is with a very heavy heart that we share that Perry Gage Beck, age 80, passed away peacefully in his home the night of Sunday, December 15th. He is survived by his beloved wife of 35 years, Pamela Payne Beck; his children, Julie Ellen Beck (Richard Allen), Joseph Perry Beck (Lisa Kuntzsch), and Louisa Jane Beck (Thomas Anderson); his brother, Charles Joseph Beck (Claudette Roberts); and his grandchildren, Levi Ralph Beck and Wyatt Shane Beck.

As a proud third-generation Californian, Perry was born in Los Angeles County on July 14, 1944, to the late Charles and Jane Beck (Perry). If you haven’t caught on by now: The Becks always work in a family name!

After graduating high school in Alhambra, Perry enlisted in the Army until he was honorably discharged in 1969, the same year that he and his wife Susan (née Knoblauch) welcomed Julie into the world, with Joe following in 1973. Perry was grateful to the G.I. Bill for allowing him to not only attend college, but to also return for a Master’s degree in Education.

Perry bought his home in Moreno Valley, California, and after teaching for many years at Hyatt Elementary School, he accepted a position teaching seventh-grade math and science at University Heights Middle School in Riverside—the beginning of the rest of his life.

It was at “Uni” he met some of his closest friends and the love of his life, Pam. After a couple of years of friendship and courtship, Pam and Perry were married in August of 1989. Perry transitioned into administration, happily serving as Vice Principal, or the “tough guy” on campus, for the remainder of his career. In 1993, Lucy was born, and suddenly it was back to late nights, diapers, and all the chaos a baby can bring—but he made it look almost easy.

Perry was as stable and reliable a man as they come. It is remarked by many that he seemed to be ageless for decades, a stalwart defender of his loved ones, and a powerful force. Whether it was hauling his dolly over to move something, popping the hood to check the engine, or making you a cup of cocoa (or a stiff drink), he knew how to show up for the people he loved.

And those people loved him back, fiercely. It is to Perry’s credit and our memories of him that despite being 80 and having struggled with Parkinson’s for nearly a decade, his passing has still left many of his loved ones in shock. A “quick exit” in the home he loved for nearly 40 years was about all the man could have asked for, and we are heartbroken but glad that was what he was granted.

Perry’s steadfast love, quiet strength, and dedication to helping others reach their full potential will remain in the hearts of all who knew him. His legacy lives on through the countless lives he touched, a reminder of the profound impact one life can have on so many.

Perry’s family will be sharing the holidays together and hopes to hold an informal memorial in the New Year. The family will post information and logistics as they become available.

Thank you.