Rose Mary (Miller) Ma Beck

Rose Mary (Miller) Beck, age 82, known to most as “Ma,” others as Granny and Grandma, passed away December 18, 2012. She was born on June 16, 1930 in Maywood, IN to Ralph and Alta Lane. Ma was raised in Indianapolis. As a child, she loved ice skating and playing the organ.

Ma married Herbert Richard Miller in 1960 and moved to Spokane, WA when he was reassigned to Fairchild AFB. After the passing of her husband, she began working at Logan Elementary, where her children attended school, as a teacher’s aide, fulfilling her dreams of being a teacher. In December of 1986, Ma married Jim Beck. The two spent their time together working at J & J Radiators, racing and fixing cars at Stateline Speedway, and being with family.

Ma was a devoted community member. She worked and volunteered much of her time to the local YMCA. After having children she volunteered for the local Cub Scouts and Boy Scouts of America. Later in life, she enjoyed spending time making cards for veterans and spending time at the Spokane Veterans Hospital.

She is survived by her children: Mike and Sharon Miller, Michele and Mark Renz, Diane and Dan Blashill, Bryan and Debbie Miller, and Bruce Miller; her grandchildren: Rick, Chelsea, Sydney and Shelby Miller, Stephanie Renz, Becky, Kim and Chad Blashill, BreAna and Britney Miller, and Robby and Katie Miller; and great-grandchildren: Dylan Renz, Autumn Banks, and Joe Conn.

The family wishes to thank Trisha and Rachel for their loving care and compassion; also Hospice Horizon for their wonderful help. Graveside services will be held at Greenwood Memorial Terrace, Garden Acacia on Saturday, December 22, 2012 at 11:00 am. In lieu of flowers the family asks donations be made to Horizon Hospice and the Spokane Humane Society.