RONALD W. BECK

Ronald Wayne " Smiley" Beck, age 73, of Freeman Spur, Illinois, passed away Friday, July 7. 2023 Ron was born February 7, 1950 in Louisville, Kentucky to Clifton R. and Pauline ( Bohanon)  Beck.

Ron joined the United States Army and served his country in the Vietnam War.  After his time in Vietnam serving with his Army Recon Unit he earned two Purple Heart accommodations.

Vietnam left him disabled from combat.  That didn't stop him from passionately working  as a community activist with Concerned Neighbors of Williamson County. Where he tried to improve living conditions for those in his community. Ron also, coached various sports for his two sons and daughter. He was a proud resident of Hurst, IL where he met and maintained many friendships throughout his life. Ron enjoyed spending time with his children and especially grandchildren, he enjoyed aggravating and joking with anyone and everyone about everything which earned him the nickname early-on in life "Smiley" Beck.  Ron was the ultimate Papa Bear/coon. For his loved ones and all that knew and loved him, their sun will shine a little less bright.

He is survived by his 4 children,

Andrew A. Beck and wife Jeni, Mindi McCown-Dodig and husband Michael. As well as his two sons Shawn J. and Brian L. Beck and spouse Krista. His grandchildren, Carlee, Casey, Jeffrey, and Caylea McCown. Abby and Jacob Beck. Julie, Kaitlyn, Brier and Arianna Beck. Tristan, Kaleb, Landon, Stephen, Emma, Chloe, Chase, Hayley, Hunter, and Dillion Beck. Collin and Mackenzie Dodig. As well as his best friend Ernie Nickens and his brother Larry Beck.

Ron was preceded in death by his father Clifton R. Beck and his mother, Pauline Beck. Sister Barbara Beck-Holstein, brother Donald Beck. He was also preceded in death by his beloved son, Anthony (Tony) Wayne Beck.

Services will be held at Murman and Wilson in Johnson City, IL August 4th, 11:00-1:00pm. Burial will follow at San Carlo Cemetery in Herrin, IL. Memorial contributions may be directed to the family.

Services will be held at 1:00 P.M. Friday, August 4, 2023, at the Murman & Wilson Funeral Home in Johnston City. Burial will be in the San Carlo Cemetery in Herrin. Visitation will be from 11:00 A.M. to 1:00 P.M. Friday at the funeral home.