BECK – Darlene Marion Beck went to her heavenly home on April 9, 2024, with her loving husband and children at her side. Her unwavering faith in God gave her the strength needed as she struggled with Parkinson’s Plus. Darlene was born to Martin and Ella Unrath on May 17, 1946, in Maple Creek, SK, and was the oldest of 5 children. Darlene is predeceased by her parents and an infant sister, Yvonne. Darlene attended school in Golden Prairie, SK until grade 11 then went to Hillcrest School in Medicine Hat, AB. Darlene and Gordon met in Golden Prairie, SK but really didn’t start dating seriously until after a Barry Moore Crusade held in Medicine Hat, where Gordon received and accepted Jesus’ call on his heart. Darlene then returned to finish grade 12 in Golden Prairie and graduated as valedictorian in her class. Gordon took Darlene for a celebration meal at the A & W in Medicine Hat; however, Darlene’s dad would not let them go unchaperoned, so Clayton Makus was elected. Darlene went to the United States to complete an airline course, only to discover she couldn’t use it in Canada. She completed the course but returned to Canada and found a job in Calgary. Darlene and Gordon dated for about 2 years before they were married. Gordon was already living in Thompson, MB, and his employer reluctantly gave him 9 days to drive to Golden Prairie to get married, have a honeymoon, and drive back to Thompson. One extra day, Gordon would have found himself without a job. On October 09, 1965, Darlene married the love of her life, Gordon Beck. They moved to Thompson, MB, for 7 years, where they had their first 2 children – Deneen and Greg. They then moved to Medicine Hat, AB for about 2 years, where they welcomed their third child – Geff. In 1974 they moved to Brooks, AB. Darlene worked alongside Gordon doing bookkeeping for his trucking career and then later at the North End Red Rooster, which then changed its locations and was renamed Red Basket. Darlene was amazing at organization and quickly became the person to come to if you needed anything! Darlene was a faithful friend, a friend that was honest and always gave a shoulder to lean on. The staff at the Red Basket could often be found in her office talking and sharing with Darlene, who would always give them the time, even if it meant it took her longer to complete her work. She easily shared a smile and hug for those around her. Darlene was known for her devout faith, her hospitality, and her generosity. Darlene was always eager to share her faith and prayed fervently for those who did not know Jesus. Until her disease slowly took away her ability, Darlene was very involved in her church, Brooks Evangelical Free Church. From teaching Sunday School, to hosting and leading Bible studies, to helping with social events, Darlene was quick to volunteer. Darlene and Gordon enjoyed many activities together. They loved to golf, curl, camp, fish, go to Bandit’s games and Country Gospel concerts, as well as travel. They were truly each other’s best friend. Their love for each other was an inspiration for all those around. Darlene was a loving, dedicated and attentive wife, mother, grandmother, and great-grandmother. She loved deeply and prayed diligently and daily for each family member. Darlene is survived by her husband of 58 years, Gordon Beck; her daughter, Deneen (Ropp) Beck and husband Leon; her son, Gregory Beck and wife Liza; her son Geoffrey Beck and wife Jen; her 9 grandchildren – Rachael (Blosser) Ropp and husband Greg; Evan Ropp and wife Amber; Caleb Ropp and wife Jelaine; Hannah (Wielemaker) Ropp and husband Caleb; Reagan Ropp; Aaron Ropp; Kimber-Lee (Kerner) Beck and husband Tyler; Darian Beck; Kennedy Beck; Emily Maurette; and her 14 great-grandchildren – Anthony and Shad Blosser; Wesley, Thomas, Frederick, and Samantha Ropp; Rylah, Leo, Meyer, and Lucy Ropp; Charlotte and Marylou Wielemaker; Thaedeon Vanhuizen and Miles Kerner; her sisters – Francis Knodel and husband Dennis; Carol Makus and husband Clayton; Sharon Anhorn and husband Don. In memory of Darlene, if family or friends desire, memorial tributes may be made to Compassion Canada at www.compassion.ca. For further information, to leave a message of sympathy or to light a candle in memory of Darlene, please visit www.thomsfuneralhome.com or call (403) 501-1010.
