Robert John Beck

Robert “Bob” Beck, 87, of Red Wing, died September 13, 2021 at his home.

He was born September 21, 1933 in Chicago, Ill. and moved as a youngster to Mauston, Wis. where he graduated from High School. In August 1953, he joined the U.S. Air Force and soon was married to Faye Colwell from La Crosse, Wis. While in the Air Force, they lived in many locations while raising their four children, Kim Ott, John “Brad” Beck, Lynn Hanold and Jodie Alpers. He completed his college education, receiving a Master of Computing Science at Texas A&M University. After 20 years, he retired from the Air Force with the rank of Lt. Col. The family then moved to La Crescent, Minn. All four children graduated from LCHS, while Bob was teaching computer data processing at Western Technical College in La Crosse.

He was a long-time member of the La Crescent United Methodist Church, holding many leadership positions and singing in the choir. Bob loved to sing and was a part of many choirs, including his high school choir, many church choirs, and for many years, the Winona Hims. Retiring from teaching to their river home, Bob had more time to pursue his hobbies, including craft projects and fishing. Bob loved sports, both as a spectator and participant, including soft ball, volleyball, tennis, and handball until his middle 80’s.

He is survived by his four children, 9 grandchildren, 8 great-grandchildren, and one sister, Harriet. He was preceded in death by his wife, Faye, and one sister, Dorothy.

A private family committal will be held at Fort Snelling National Cemetery. Memorials are preferred to Portage Lake Bible at https://portagelake.org. Online condolences may be left for the family at www.mahnfamilyfuneralhome.com