Johnny Beck Obituary (1926 - 2019)

Johnny Beck, 92, of Pana passed away Sunday, September 15, 2019 at Prairie Rose Health Care Center. He was born October 25, 1926 in Fayette County, IL, son of the late Jesse Benton & Zelma (Jones) Beck. Johnny married Rosemary Vits on February 11, 1953 in Oconee and she preceded him in death on February 21, 2012. Johnny was a graduate of Ramsey High School before serving his country in the U.S. Army. He lived most of his life in the Oconee & Pana areas and was a member of the Roy Ireland Post #317 American Legion, Oconee. Johnny was retired from Firestone and worked on the family farm. He enjoyed pitching horseshoes & playing cards. He liked animals, especially horses, and enjoyed trail riding & camping. Johnny was a hard worker and his family was the most important part of his life. He is survived by his daughters: Mary Lynn (Billy) Smith of Ohlman & Janie (Don) Schmitz of Oconee; grandchildren: Miranda Smith, Christina (Brandon) Ward, Bonnie Smith (Joel Jones), Kyle (Tiffany) Schmitz, Eric (Lena) Schmitz; great grandchildren: Dean Schmitz, Reid Schmitz, Barron Ward, Ethan Ward, Shylin Ward & Chloe Jones; sister-in-law, Teresa "Toots" Beck of Oconee; and brother-in-law, Leon "Junior" (Betty) Vits of Pana. In addition to his parents & wife, he was preceded in death by his siblings: Cyril Beck, Cecil Beck, Raymond Beck, Rollie Beck & Jerry Beck. Funeral services will be held on Saturday, September 21, 2019 in McCracken-Dean Funeral Home at 10:00 a.m. with Lawrence Beck officiating. Burial will be in Buchanan Cemetery, Herrick with military rites at the graveside. Visitation will be held on Saturday from 9:00 a.m. until service time in the funeral home. Memorials in Johnny's honor may be made to the Buchanan Cemetery, Herrick or the Roy Ireland Post #317 American Legion, Oconee and will be accepted by McCracken-Dean Funeral Home who is assisting the family.