Donald L. Beck

Donald L. Beck , 83, of Danville, died at 5:59 AM Wednesday, February 17, 2021, at the Great River Hospice House in West Burlington.

Born October 18, 1937, in Burlington, he was the son of Lester Elner and Ruth Mary Rice Beck. On August 23, 1959, he married Virginia C. Taeger in Prairie Grove. 

Besides his lifelong work in farming, he also built Wasau homes with Matthews Construction Company and worked in production at the Iowa Ordinance Plant.

He graduated from Danville High School in 1955. During his High School career he was the first person to score a touchdown for the Danville football team. He attended Coe College where he played football, as well, and was coached by Marv Levy. 

He was a U.S. Marines Veteran, serving from August 30, 1956 until August 29, 1958.

Don had a passion for agriculture and was involved in many farming organizations. He was a member of the L.C. Co-op, a 4H leader, Iowa Pork Producers, and the SEI Hay Growers Association. During the 1980's he developed the Farm Support Group. He was also active in his community through the SEI Youth for Christ group, as a Little League Coach and as a member of the Masonic Lodge, where he held many chairs. In the 1970's, he took part in the Nicaragua Church Building Project Mission trip. He was an avid Hawkeyes fan and enjoyed cheering on his kids and grandkids at their sporting events. 

Survivors include his wife, Virginia Beck of Danville; four children, Elaine (John Pihlblad) Beck of Waukee, Iowa, Dave (Christa) Beck of Mediapolis, Iowa, Doug (Edith) Beck of Burlington and Julie (Doug) Snavely of Danville; 14 grandchildren, David, Daniel, Hanna, Jonathan, Kole, Hunter, Christopher, Joseph, Rachel, Sarah, Emma, Luke, Sean, and Eric; and two sisters, Marleen Beck and Marjorie (Richard) Gibson both of Danville.

He is preceded in death by his parents.

Visitation will be from 5:00 PM until 7:00 PM Friday February 26, 2021 at Prugh~Thielen Funeral Home. 

Family will receive friends 10:00 AM until noon prior to a noon funeral service Saturday February 27, 2021 at Prugh~Thielen Funeral Home with Pastor Clay Baker officiating. Burial will be in Prairie Grove Cemetery.

Due to the concerns regarding COVID-19, masks and practice social distancing are suggested. 

Memorials have been established for Prairie Grove Cemetery Association and Kayla's Cupboard. 

To send flowers to the family, please visit our floral store.