Paul Beck

 

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Paul Beck, 92, of 11116 Circle Dr., Otterbein St. Marys, OH, passed away Monday, July 5, 2010, at St. Rita's Medical Center, Lima, Oh.

Paul previously resided in Huber Heights, Ohio, for 45 years prior to moving to St. Marys Otterbein Retirement Community in 2005 to be near his daughter.

Paul was born October 20, 1917 in Butternut (near Ladysmith) Wisconsin, the son of Henry Christian Beck and Emma Lydia (Zimple) Beck. He was the last surviving member of his immediate family, having been predeceased by his 3 brothers and 2 sisters.

Paul was a decorated Veteran of World War II, serving in 13th Army Air Force, 42nd Bomb Group, 390th Bomb Squadron in the Asiatic/Pacific Theater, Northern Solomon Islands. He served as a door gunner, radio operator, and photographer on the B-25 Bomber. Among numerous WWII & AAF medals, he was awarded the Air Medal for combat missions with two Oak Leaf Clusters, a Bronze Battle Star, and two Overseas Service Bars.

Paul married the love of his life, Ruth Ann Swanson after returning home to Wisconsin from the war in 1945. She preceded him in death in 1965. He later married Zella Carpenter of Dayton, OH, who also preceded him in death. Paul devoted himself for several years to caring for both wives during lengthy illnesses.

He was retired after 35 yrs of service from the Federal Aviation Administration as an air traffic controller and flight service specialist. He was a Life Member of the Dayton American Legion and was a member of the St. Marys VFW.

Paul previously resided in Huber Heights, Ohio, for 45 years prior to moving to St. Marys Otterbein Retirement Community in 2005 to be near his daughter.

He is survived by three children: Diane (Elden) Wick of Phoenix, AZ; Herbert (Wendy) Beck of Huber Heights, OH; and Judy (John III) Weng of St. Marys, OH.

Also surviving are six grandchildren - Karin (Mike) DeAmicis of Marietta GA; Alicia Wick of Seattle WA; Mathew and Zachary Beck of Huber Heights, OH; Shari (Arthur) Naugle of Celina, OH; and Chris (Sandy) Weng of St. Marys, OH.

Surviving Great Grandchildren are; Paul Lauth II of St. Marys,OH; Carrie Lauth and Danielle Naugle of Celina, OH; Olivia and Grace DeAmicis of Marietta,GA.

He is also survived by numerous nieces and nephews, and a special friend and long-time companion, Margaret Barklow of Dayton, OH, as well as a special friend at Otterbein St. Marys, Katie Pearce.

During his lifetime, Paul enjoyed traveling the world, camping, billiards, playing the guitar, and spending time with his family. He will be remembered as a devoted husband, father and grandfather, always providing a loving home and many happy memories for his family. His military service to our country will never be forgotten or our freedoms taken for granted.

Funeral rites will be held 1:00 P.M. Friday, July 9, 2010, at the Meyer Community Chapel of Otterbein Saint Marys Retirement Community in Saint Marys, Ohio, the Reverend Ron Boyer, officiating. Burial, with military honors, will be held at Maple Hill Cemetery in Tipp City, Ohio.

Friends may call from 2-4 and 6-8 P.M. Thursday at the Miller Funeral Home, 1605 Celina Road, Saint Marys, where memorial donations may be directed to Otterbein Saint Marys Retirement Community.