DAYTONA BEACH, Fla. -- Saturday's passing of retired Circuit Judge David Beck, who suffered from amyotrophic lateral sclerosis, more commonly referred to as Lou Gehrig's Disease, has left colleagues saddened, but reflective as to his passion for life, the law and the community he served as a judge, family man and veteran. Beck was 69 years old.
“I deeply mourn the passing of my good friend and colleague David Beck," Chief Judge Raul Zambrano told Headline Surfer. "David was a beloved judge by all. He brightened everyone up with his smile and kind and caring demeanor. We have missed him ever since he retired – and now we miss him even more. Our prayers and thoughts are with (wife) Carol and the entire Beck family.”
Headline Surfer reported Beck's death in a story published Tuesday: Retired Circuit Judge David Beck of Ormond Beach has died at age 69.
In addition to Zambrano, Headline Surfer reached out to Volusia County Judge Bryan Feigenbaum, who expressed admiration for Beck's knowledge of the law and his tireless advocacy for veterans and Special Oympics, even as health isues forced him to retire from his circuit judgeship at the City Island Complex on Orange Avenue.
"David Beck, an Army veteran from the Vietnam War period, did more for veterans in the Volusia County court system, and in the 7th Judicial Circuit, than any judge in our area," Feigenbaum said in response to a request for comment on Beck's legacy.
"It was his dogged effort that led to the start of Veterans Court in this circuit. The court has helped many veterans and their families through tough times. It has helped veterans [and active duty military] for issues dealing with PTSD, substance abuse, anger management problems and so much more. It has helped homeless veterans get housing and led to job and education opportunities. It has kept families together."
Beyond his work as a judge, Feigenbaum described Beck as "a terrific person, who worked with and coached in Special Olympics for years and years. He was involved in Honor Air flights bringing WW II Veterans to Washington D.C. He worked with Habitat for Humanity, Stewart Marchman, Food Brings Hope, and the Volusia County Mediation Agency."
Feigenbaum said what he most admired about Beck was his courtroom demeanor. "He never spoke down to people, was unpretentious, filled with wisdom and common sense, had a wonderful sense of humor and loved his family so very much. We have lost a great friend. Thank you for bringing attention to my friend, Dave Beck."
Public Memorial Service
Judge Beck's family welcomes the sharing of love and support from all who felt connected to him. Please join them for a public memorial celebration of his life at 4 p.m. on Friday Sept.15, at the ICI Center at Embry Riddle, Daytona Beach.
David Beck is survived by his wife, Carolyn, six children and 10 grandchildren.
In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation to an organization Judge Beck supported: the ALS foundation, the Special Olympics of Volusia County, the Veterans Support Fund of Volusia County, or Halifax Hospice. Lohman Funeral Homes has charge of arrangements.