Margaret Ellen Beck

It is with deep sorrow that we announce the passing of our loving wife, mother and grandmother who passed away peacefully, with family by her side, on April 21st, 2007 at Saskatoon City Hospital. She is survived by her husband of 60 years, William (Stan) Beck of Central Butte, SK; son Grant (Mavis) Beck of Sherwood Park, AB and their children Jason, Christine and Stuart; son Steven of Watrous, SK and his children, Reese, Tonisha and Nigel; daughter Renee (James Milne) of Dalmeny, SK and their children Shea and Erin. Margaret was predeceased by her parents and her beloved children, Larraine Gail (1966) and Bradley Robert (1975). Margaret was an only child, born to Kate and Robert Rennard in Ferry Hill , England , May 8, 1926. Margaret grew up in Darlington , England and attended an all girl school, took piano lessons, dance lessons, attended live theatre and thoroughly enjoyed culture and the arts. Her teen years, however, were war-time years, with rationed food and clothing, restricted travel, blacked-out streets and bomb shelters. By age 16, Margaret had completed her education and had taken on a job with an insurance company in the city. In addition to her work, Margaret acted as a hostess in the Navy Army Airforce Institute (NAAFI) Club operated by the Women’s Voluntary Service. It was here that she met her future husband, Stan Beck, a flight engineer with the RCAF. Margaret, or Margo as she was affectionately called, left her family and homeland to come to Canada to marry. Stan and Margaret were wed on Feb 16, 1947 in Moose Jaw and resided and farmed near Mawer, SK. It is there that they built their life and devoted themselves to raising their five children. The community was also a big part of their lives. Among her commitments, Margaret was secretary and member of the local school board, a member of the Mawer Social club, and was an avid volunteer and the director of programs for many-a-program at the Central Butte Legion Branch. They remained on the farm until 1980 when they retired and built a house in Central Butte . Upon retirement they traveled to many countries throughout the world, with many trips back to England . Even so, a highlight was their trip to Disney Land with some of their grandchildren. Margaret’s artistic and creative flare shone through in every aspect of her life, from her elegant sense of fashion through to the delicious meals she lovingly prepared. She had a passion for drama, playing the piano, and dancing. As an avid reader she was sure to stay abreast of current world events. Margaret was a gracious host and enjoyed many card games and activities with friends. She was sure to be seen at the local beauty parlor for her weekly hairdo and had a regular spectator’s spot at the rink from which to cheer on the local hockey teams. In the summer she loved to go to the lake to look over the water or take in a refreshing boat ride. Above anything else in life however, Margaret was a dedicated and loving mother, homemaker, grandmother, and friend. We are forever thankful for her lifelong example of courage, faith and patience, her gentle nature, thoughtfulness and unwavering love. A memorial service will be held Wednesday, April 25, 2007 at 2:00 p.m. in Moose Jaw Funeral Home, 268 Mulberry Lane with Rev. Doug Shepherd officiating. If friends desire, memorial tributes may be made to the Central Butte and District Healthcare Foundation Box 582 Central Butte SK, S0H0T0.