James E. Beck

James E. Beck, 84, passed away peacefully in his home on Monday, May 19, 2025, with his loving wife of 54 years by his side. James was born on Nov. 8, 1940, in Homestead, Florida, to Lois and Don Beck. He grew up in Florida, Arizona, and later on the family farm in Dana, Indiana.

James graduated from Newport High School in 1958 and earned Bachelor’s and Master’s degrees in Education and Counseling from Indiana University. He touched countless lives over a 30-year teaching career at Eastwood and Northview middle schools, and later worked as a reconciler at American United Life, retiring at age 65.

His family, friends, students, and co-workers will never forget his sense of humor. He enjoyed entertaining others with funny nicknames and expressions. One of his favorite places, the euchre table, afforded him plenty of opportunities to make people laugh. His good humor never faltered, even during a nearly 20-year battle with Parkinson’s Disease.

James enjoyed bird watching, photography, and spending time outdoors. He loved his church family at North United Methodist Church and spent over 40 years in the same Sunday School class.

James was preceded in death by his parents. He is survived by his wife, Kathy, who faithfully cared for him over the past many years; sons Greg (Suzanne) and Brian (Melissa); sister Karen Keaton; grandchildren Olivia, Maggie, Bellamie, Caleb, and Jude; step-grandchildren Noah and Daniel; sisters-in-law Geraldine Hay and Linda Poor; and many nieces and nephews.

A visitation will take place at North United Methodist Church on Tuesday, May 27, 2025, from 10 to 11:30 a.m. A funeral service will follow. James will be laid to rest at Washington Park North Cemetery.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions can be made to Independent Adult Day Centers (7318 Crossing Place, Fishers, IN 46038) or the Michael J. Fox Foundation for Parkison's Research.