Obituary of Karel Jan Beck

Karel Jan Beck

Passed away peacefully at home with a houseful of loved ones by his side on July 16, 2024 in his 95th year. Beloved husband to Ann (Anneke) for 68 years. Loving father to Joe, Betty Ann, twin girls (D 1960) Trisia (D 1996) and Lynn (Patrick). Grandfather to Stephen (Amanda), Jason (Nick), Cody (Tina), Sydney and Matt. Great grandfather to Andy, Emily, Ollie and Ben.  Survived by his sister Anny and his many nieces and nephews in the Netherlands and Canada.

Karel immigrated to Canada in 1952 and was determined to make a better life for himself. He worked in many different jobs often working a couple jobs at the same time.  As a welder by trade he worked at Massey Ferguson in Brantford for 15 years. He took courses to become a lifeguard and swimming instructor and worked every summer at a pool. He played in a dance band every Saturday and in the Symphony Orchestra in Brantford. He was the President of the Optimist Club and volunteered with different organizations. 

In 1969, they purchased Nogies Creek Resort and the family moved to Bobcaygeon. Karel and Ann ran the resort for 20 years. He soon got involved in the community volunteering at the Chamber of Commerce, Winter Carnival, Bobcaygeon Village Aires Drum Chorp, Director of the Community Choir and the Trinity United Church Choir, Dog Trainer, for 50 years he was the Judge of the Bobcaygeon Fall Fair Dog Show, Township Councillor, President of the Bobcaygeon Fiddle and Step Dance and the list goes on.
 

Karel had a great sense of humor and a joy for life. He loved to travel with Ann especially in their RV and later spent 20 years going to Travelers Rest in Florida during the winters, he was also passionate about nature and music. Karel’s favorite was his violin and he enjoyed the fellowship playing brought to him and he touched many lives with his music. Karel brought his love for sailing his father gave him from the Netherlands and sailed at the Bobcaygeon Yacht Club for 20+ years with his daughter Lynn. 
 

Karel was a role model to his family and always had a way of putting things into perspective. He cherished family dinners, especially Ann’s cooking and sitting long after chatting around the table. He thoroughly enjoyed his visits with grandchildren and great grandchildren as these were fun opportunities to catch up, share stories and laugh.  

The family would like to thank Dr. Mallory for his incredible compassion, support and care. Also, a big thank you to Homecare Nurses Tina and Jill.

Family and friends are invited to attend a visitation at the Hendren Funeral Home – Monk Chapel, 6 Helen Street, on Wednesday July 24^th from 6:00PM – 8:00PM. A funeral service will be held at the Trinity-Providence United Church, 44 William Street, on Thursday July 25^th at 11:00AM, with visitation to commence one hour prior. Reception to follow the service. 

In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to Trinity United Church Washroom Accessibility Fund. Family and friends may send condolences or make donations by visiting www.hendrenfuneralhome.com, or by calling 705 738-3222.