Theodore J. Beck

Theodore J. Beck, 91, Rockford, died on Wednesday, December 18, 2013 in Presence Cor Mariae Center. Born January 15, 1922 in Fort Atkinson, WI, son of Stanley and Nettie Suchocka Beck. Graduated from Belvidere High School where he excelled in football and track. His outstanding sports abilities led him to play semi-pro football for a few years and he coached grade-school basketball and football teams. Proud U.S. Army veteran, serving with the 82nd Airborne in the Euporean Theater during WWII. He was the recipient of a Purple Heart and four Bronze Stars, completing his military career as a member of the Military Police. Married Susan Grondzki in Rockford at St. Stanislaus Church on September 10, 1949 and was still a member there. He had also been a member of the Holy Name Society. Ted worked as an Enameller for Belvidere Products for over 40 years, retiring in 1987. He loved to do puzzles, play bingo and read old time Western novels. He was a talented woodworker having made special things for family members and was a skilled gardener and bowler.

Survived by his son, Ted (Kathy) Beck; grandchildren, Lindsay (Josh) Dannenberg, Tricia (Fortunato) Salamone and Stacey (Chad) Bonacorsi; great-grandchildren, Gwendelynn and Sydney Dannenberg, Addisyn and Scarlett Salamone and Baby Girl Bonacorsi due in January; son, Mark (Pam) Beck of Milwaukee, Wisconsin; grandchildren, Eric Beck and Mark (Jessica) Beck, Jr., Peter and nieces and nephews. Predeceased by his wife, Susan, on February 6, 2009 his parents and his sister, Jenny Van Epps.

Mass of Christian Burial at 10:00 a.m.on Friday, December 27, 2013 in St. Stanislaus Church with Rev. Dariusz Barna ofiiciating. Burial in Calvary Catholic Cemetery. Visitation from 5-7 p.m. Thursday in Fitzgerald Funeral Home & Crematory, Mulford Chapel, 1860 S. Mulford Rd. Memorials may be made to the family. Express condolences and share memories at www.fitzgeraldfh.com.