Sad News for FIRST- passing of Dave Beck, team 103

[Wayne C.]

I am thoroughly shocked to report to the CD community of the unexpected death of Dave Beck, head coach of team 103, the Cybersonics. Right now we do not have details of arrangements and such but I will post as they become available.

Suffice it to say we are all very much in shock over this. Dave was my counterpart on our good friend team 103 and our two teams had many fine experiences together over the past years. Just a few weeks ago our teams traveled to Orlando to play together down there and gave the Florida teams a run for their money.
As any who knew him will attest, Dave was the kind of coach who set a the example for the rest of us. Many times over they year's I asked him for advice on issues regarding our team. He was always ready to help with a smile. I cant believe that he is gone.

All our prayers and condolences go out to Cathy, Cassie and the Cybersonics.


WC :(

[JohnBoucher]

A terrible loss for all of FIRST. Please let them know our prayers are with them.

[Rosiebotboss]

From a team that has experienced the loss of a lead mentor and founder, I understand this is a shock and a very troubling time for a team to go through. I want to express our condolences from Rosie to the Cybersonics.

We had the pleasure of playing with 103 on several occasions over the years and I have always looked up to Dave and your organization as one to emulate.

Our thoughts and prayers are with you.

[KelliV]

Dave was always a pleasure to be around. His excitement and enthusiasm for FIRST could be seen wherever he was. I'm deeply saddened to hear of Mr. Beck's passing. My thoughts and prayers are with his family and team.


-Kelli

[galewind]

As a coach of a hall of fame team, a WFFA winner, and a hell of a guy, Dave was someone who I wasn't afraid to come to with questions about "how 103 does things". An amazing individual who will be very sadly missed.

My condolences to the Becks and to 103 for this tremendous loss.

[jessjank.]

Most of us have been at a loss for words. We're all devastated...

Wanted to post his 2004 WFFA Essay for those of you who never knew Dave Beck...

What is the component that makes someone an outstanding leader, an admirable person, or even a hero? It's more than the common choices he makes or the ability to take 35 people and turn them into an organized functioning team that strives to achieve certain tasks and goals at the highest level possible. The fact of the matter is, to be this type of person, it's all about the sacrifices that one makes and the way these sacrifices inspire and influence others in a positive manner. David Beck is a technology and engineering teacher at Palisades High School and proud mentor of Cybersonics Team 103. He has made sacrifices in his personal life that many consider to be unfathomable, and has defined the role of a communicator whose actions and passionate words have become the glue that has held the Cybersonics family together for the past eight years.
In the small Palisades School District where there are more farms than traffic signals, there is always a continual struggle to get students involved in activities and clubs; however this has never been the case with Cybersonics. So what is this undetermined factor that brings students from grades 9-12 into the technology room until 9 o'clock for 42 days and captivates most of their personal lives? It's simply because learning about science and technology has become fun and exciting due to the drastic influence that Mr. Beck has had on us all. According to team members, Mr. Beck "made FIRST a rewarding experience" and "encourages us to go out of the box to solve complex problems" through "innovative methods of teaching". He is a man who has realized the true value of FIRST and has responded to Dean Kamen's encouragement to spread the message by incorporating classes in the school curriculum that reflect FIRST's competitions. Mr. Beck is a man that makes each of us a better person; he encourages everyone from the head manufacturer to the freshmen journalist to participate and make a difference. Most importantly he realizes that "Cybersonics is about people" and "...about kids and mentors coming together to achieve at the highest level."
Perhaps what makes Mr. Beck so special to all of us and provides all of Team 103 with the drive to push forward when the future may look dismal, are his inspiring words. At the beginning of every season, he makes his expectations crystal clear: "As a member of this team, you are going to be asked to do things that may seem unreasonable. If you are not ready or willing to commit the time and energy necessary to be a member of this team, this is your chance to leave." As a leader he makes the ultimate sacrifices as a husband, father, and individual. Throughout the six weeks he holds various different meetings to remind each student that "FIRST is a privilege, not a right".
Over the years Mr. Beck has had a tremendous impact on everyone he encounters, even those that our team frequently faces during competition. As Paul Kloberg of team 1403 and former mentor of 303 would say, "if there were such a thing as a "DAVE BECK AWARD", I'm quite certain that Woodie Flowers himself would be honored and humbled to be selected...". Mr. Beck's team spirit and enthusiasm at competitions exemplify that he is passionate about science and technology and truly cares about the success of the FIRST organization. For two members of our team he is a father and uncle, but for all of us he is a deeply admirable person, a friend, and most importantly, our hero.

[darkember]

Team 103 has been very gracious to us. This was a shock for our whole team. :(

[GeorgeTheEng]

I speak for myself and Team 87 when I offer our condolences to Team 103 and the Beck Family. Our team has been priveledged over the years to have many an event where our pit was right next to 103's. Dave has always been a great friend to us. He was always willing to help us and offer us advice. His loss will be felt throughout the FIRST community. :(

[nuggetsyl]

I lay awake most of last night in a daze when i heard about Dave. My thoughts a prayers are with Cathy and Cassy.

[JGecko146]

On behalf of team 501, I'd like to extend condolences to the family, the team, and anyone else touched by Mr. Beck. Although I did not personally know him, everything I've read about him in this thread tells me that he was a wonderful person and such an asset to the FIRST community. His family and team are in my prayers.

[thefro526]

I've never met Mr. Beck personally but I wish I did. I heard about this last night.. My heart dropped at the news. My thoughts and prayers go out to the Beck Family and Team 103 for their loss. He was one of those people who stood out to me as a leader at all of the First events I've been to.

[Rich Kressly]

Dave has altered the paths of thousands of lives in a positive direction, mine thankfully included. It's a sad time indeed when we lose a good friend and someone who defines "teacher" so profoundly. This is a loss that will take longer to process than most for many of us.

[Meredith Novak]

A picture of Mr. Beck can be seen on this page:
http://www.chiefdelphi.com/forums/wfa.php?action=regionaldetail&year=2004

My prayers go out to his family and friends. This is such a devasting event for his family, his team and all of FIRST.

_

[JudyVandy]

Deepest sympathy to Dave's family and his 'FIRST family' from Chuck 84. We'll all miss him and all he did for our community.

This is a shock to us all!

[KathieK]

Although I don't believe we ever met, when I heard the news I immediately recognized the name... Some people are legends in the FIRST community. I am saddened that I didn't get the opportunity to have a conversation with Mr. Beck and my condolences go out to his family, colleagues and team.

[OZ_341]

Dave's passing is a great loss for all of the kids that will never get to meet him or learn form this great man.
He was a great friend and advisor. He was a mentor to our team and to me personally.
We will all miss him on so many levels, that it is not possible to put it all in perspective.
On behalf of myself, my family, and the 341 family, I just wanted to say how much we will miss Dave.
Our prayers are with Cathy, Cassie and everyone at Palisades High School.

Alan Ostrow

[Gabe Salas Jr.]

I was able to meet and talk to him at the Florida regional this year. A very well-rounded individual and a model mentor for FIRST. My condolences to all whom knew him.

[Chris Fultz]

Our thoughts and prayers are with Daves family and friends and team through this very difficult time. It is difficult to find the right words to say.

Condolences from Team 234.

[Michael Sperber]

I have known Dave and Cathy through FIRST for many years. Our teams (175 and 103) sat next to each other at the very first Chairman's Award Hall of Fame. Dave was an amazing person, who not only worked hard for his students, but for a better FIRST. Over the years we have had numerous discussions about FIRST, our teams and life. I will miss those conversations and I will miss seeing him and the energy he brings to FIRST.

While he may be gone... his impact on FIRST, his team and his students will continue for years.

[Mr MOE]

What a tragic and surprising loss.

Dave was a great man. One of my fondest memories of Dave is being on the FIRST playing field on Friday afternoon's at the Philly Regional, where the WFFA award-winners are announced and previous winners gather to form a receiving line, and seeing Dave come down wearing his signature "plastic blue pom-pom wig." He always was there to help and to have fun.

As we hear more and more about the number of lives he touched, both directly and indirectly, it should make us proud to have known Dave and seen first-hand the fruits of his labors.

On behalf of MOE 365, our prayers go out to Dave's family, Team 103, and each life in FIRST and beyond that Dave has touched.

Dave, you will be missed.

[BandChick]

Mr. Beck was just...one of those goto guys. He was always there with a smile, ready to talk to you, or answer your questions. He did his part to make everyone feel welcome and important, to encourage learning on and off the competition field, and he helped build a great team.

I first met Dave in 2003, when I was still a student. It was the year Cybersonics won Chairman's in NJ and then down in Houston. And I remember Mr. Beck and Mr. Cokeley both screaming their lungs off, and hugging in well, more excitement than I'd ever seen.

And since then, 7 years now, he went on to do so much more.
He was one of those mentors that I think all other mentors strive to be like.
And it will be hard to be in FIRST without him.

My condolences and thoughts go out to Cassie and Cathy.
And of course to my good friends on 103.

[petek]

In this sad moment, for all of us whose lives Dave touched, there is solace in knowing that he was a great friend, mentor and force for change in his communities.

Dave's impact is felt in Palisades High School, where he created an innovative technology curriculum so that not just his team members, but all his students, can learn the lessons taught in FIRST. Dave always put his students interests above all else and a generation has benefited from his passion.

Through the Cybersonics Technology Team his efforts extended well beyond Palisades' halls. Dave and Cathy founded this team eighteen years ago to take technology education to the next level. Because of their efforts countless numbers of students have been inspired to pursue education and careers in fields that seemed unattainable to most in their rural school district. And they were encouraged to learn all the lessons of FIRST, successfully competing for awards on and off the playing field, and demonstrating gracious professionalism long before that term was coined.

Dave will be remembered for all that he achieved, but to me his greatest legacy lives on in all of those whose lives he changed. The world is a better place because of him.

[waialua359]

What a sad and unexpectful event.
To team 103, sorry to hear about your loss of a great leader and mentor.
I had the opportunity to speak with him on many occasions and we had often talked about their team coming to Hawaii with Wayne C. and team 25.

From team 359, our hearts go out to your team.

[Andy Baker]

My heart goes out to the Beck family and team 103 in this time of tragedy. Dave Beck will be greatly missed.

While Dave's impact on us all was huge, the sadness for his absence is greater.

Andy

[JaneYoung]

Illuminating
the path, a light in darkness
shines. This mentor's gift.

[Robyn Needel]

We were so sad to receive this news last night. We met Dave a number of times at competitions and were always struck by his enthusiasm, excitement for his team, knowledge and his willingness to share it all. I speak for our family and Team 768 in passing along our prayers to Dave's family and to our friends on the Cybersonics ... may his memory be a blessing to you all.

[Bharat Nain]

This news hit me like a ton of bricks and I still cannot believe it. From the first time I met Dave Beck, I knew he was a honest, humble, sincere and genuine human being. He always brought the wisdom and perspective that we lacked enlightening us in every situation. Armed with a smile on his face and an answer to just about any question, Dave Beck was the ultimate GO TO guy. He put the fun and enthusiasm into every situation and kept his calm regardless of what was going on. Every time I met him, I learned something new. It was just like yesterday at the Florida regional, I remember telling him "Mr. Beck, if you were not around we wouldn't be competing" and got the signature Dave Beck smile and then a laugh. To those of us who have had the honor of knowing him, he will be immensely missed and his legacy will always be one to learn from. My most sincere condolences to Cathy and Cassie Beck and everyone at Palisades HS. Please keep them in your prayers.

This is a very sad day for FIRST :(

[robotlover]

Team 1675 would like to send out our condolences to team 103 and the whole Beck family. We sympathize for your loss. If you guys need any help with anything feel free to call out on us. We'd be willing to help you in any way we can. Once again sorry for the loss.

[Akash Rastogi]

When I heard about this last night my only reaction was "I just talked to him in Philly for the first time ever."

What an amazing mentor and all around person. 11's best wishes go out to our friends at 103 and Mr. Beck's family. When our mentors got the news today they were just incredibly shocked. Mr. Beck was one to make friends with any other team or mentors, a true class act and a champion on and off the field. All the NJ and PA teams will try our best to carry on 103's spirit to Atlanta.

Stay strong 103, like you always do.

[ras103]

First and foremost, thank you to all of the teams who have sent condolence and prayer wishes. They are greatly appreciated. They say a hero isn't measured by the size of his strength, but by the strength of his heart. Dave Beck was... no is the best example of a hero. I've only gotten to know him this year and I've reeped the benefits of being apart of the Beck's family, we like to call Cybersonics. We are truly one big family, and together, with the gracious support of the FIRST community we can and will get through this, coming out stronger on the other end! So once again thank you for your prayers.
~Rachel
Mr. Beck's #1 fan 2008-2009
Determined to keep his lively, passionate spirit Alive!

[Andy Brockway]

My prayers go out to the Beck family and Team 103. Mike helped so many teams andTeam 716 was one of them. Too soon.

[Vikesrock]

My thoughts and prayers go out to the friends and family of Mr. Beck and to all of the Cybersonics.

I never met Mr. Beck, but from all the posts here it is obvious that he will live on through all the Cybersonics past, present, and future as well as through the many others whose lives he touched.

[pafwl]

FIRST is about inspriation. I can think of no better example of inspiration than Dave. From the first moment I met him many years ago to just a few weeks ago in Philly he was my inspiration.

We have all lost a mentor. To the students of FIRST who some day will become the gracious professionals we hope you will be, consider yourself very lucky to have known Dave Beck.

All of team 272's prayers and condolences go out to Cathy, Cassie and the Cybersonics.


Frank Larkin - Lansdale Catholic Robotics

PS - At LC we sometimes use the expression "I am weeping openly" when we build something cool. It has new meaning today.

[camtunkpa]

222 passes along our condolences to the Beck family and the Cybersonics. I'm shocked to think I was just talking to him and joking with him at the Philly regional as we always do. Dave was truly a class act and may he live through all the students and mentors he has influenced. We will miss you Dave

[Jared Russell]

This hurts. A lot.

In the NJ/Philly area we are like a family - a bunch of grizzled veteran teams who play with and against each other at event after event. We laugh, we yell at each other, we cry together. You get used to seeing the same faces year after year. To me, there is a comfort in showing up at an event and seeing the Larkins, the Larocks, the Kressleys, the Becks. The game may change, the venue may change, but you always know you're at a Philadelphia-area competition when you see those same smiles that have been there for a decade.

I will remember Dave most for the way he carried himself. If you've ever seen me at an event you know that I'm a fiery competitor, sometimes to a fault. Dave was just as competitive, yet he was always composed and mindful of the true purpose of FIRST. On several occasions he recognized when I was getting frustrated and came over and he would just talk to me. To lighten the mood. Remind me to smile. Remind me that, win or lose, being at a FIRST competition sure beats being at work :D

I could also go on and on about how Dave and Cathy have helped Team 341 over the years, of course. Theirs is a team that we have striven to emulate for a long time.

My deepest sympathies for Cathy, Cassie, and all of Team 103.

[Koko Ed]

On behalf of team 191 our thoughts and prayers go out to Dave's family, friends and teammates.
May you find comfort in your time of loss.

[Libby K]

I heard the news last night, and I haven't stopped crying since.
I don't want to post this, because that means it's really true...but I wanted to share my story and maybe let people who hadn't gotten the honor of meeting him know what a wonderful person Dave Beck really was.

------------
I first met Dave Beck when I was about 7 years old- my family had just moved to NJ and my dad wanted to get acquainted with the area teams. While he was judging at the regional, Cassie and I would run around- and Dave was always keeping an eye out for us. He was really like a second father to me at those events. I carry those memories with me always.

A few years ago, as I was moving up into high school, Dave gave me & my family advice and encouragement for starting 1923. Dave, Cathy, Cassie, and the whole of team 103 has always stood by my team through thick and thin. When we lost all our mentors before our regional last year, and I was just about ready to give up, the Becks helped me pull through the tears and gave me the confidence to know 1923 would live on.

This season, 1923, at Dave's invitation, practiced at the Cybersonics' field every weekend. They graciously hosted us every weekend, and there formed a great camaraderie between the two teams. My teammates no longer referred to them as my friends at 103. They were our friends. Team 103 is a group we have tried to emulate this year- through their passion, their gracious professionalism, and their all-around ability to be wonderful people, which I attribute to their wonderful mentor.

This year has been an outstanding one for my team, and we owe it all to Dave & Team 103.
We count him as a mentor of our own, and we will miss him greatly. This is an incredible loss for the FIRST community.

Dave Beck is one of the most outstanding people I have ever met, and he will live on through all the students he has inspired.
I know that the lessons he has taught me will stay with me all my life.

Team 1923 is proud to have known him, and we carry on his memory. He will never be forgotten.

My deepest condolences to Cathy, Cassie, team 103, and everyone at Palisades. If you need anything -and I mean anything- please don't hesitate to let your friends at 1923 know. We're here for you.

[AudreyHealy]

Though I did not know Dave, my condolences go to his family and friends and the FIRST community that knew him.

[dcodd]

This year I was lucky enough to join Team 103 and got to know Mr. Beck.
Dave Beck was the kind of person who would always encourage us and help us in any way he could. I only got one year with Mr. Beck, but what I learned in this year from him I'll carry for a lifetime.
Thank you to everyone for offering so much support. Cybersonics will keep Mr. Beck's memory alive in our hearts. He did so much for us, he was a great mentor, and a fantastic person. We will always remember him.

Thanks to everyone,
Darby
*Memories will be in our hearts, we'll never forget you*

[JonellGregor]

Dave, His Family, Team 103, and everyone who knew him will be in Team 79's thoughts and prayers.

[DMetalKong]

Oh behalf of Team 303, I offer our condolences.

[jessjank.]

I still have not gathered my thoughts. This just doesn't feel like it could be real... I keep waiting to wake up...

This is a link to Dave Beck's WFFA Announcement at the New Jersey Regionalin 2004.... please take a look. Thank you so much, Kres, for getting this up...

http://video.google.com/videoplay?docid=430970586722956249

[AlexD744]

They were such amazing team down in Florida, and that must have to do with thier lead mentor. I am sad never took time out to meet him, even though I wanted too. Our prayers are with his family and the team.

[Conor Ryan]

I had the chance to work very closely with Mr. Beck on more than one occasion. He was a great person to be around, he knew just about everybody and he could make anyone laugh, no matter how rough your day was going. Mr. Beck did a huge personal favor for me back in 2006, and I every day I am thankful he helped me out of a tight spot.

He is greatly missed.

[DonRotolo]

$@#$@#$@#$@#. It's so unfair.

I first met Dave while they were a beta-test team just a few months ago, and you couldn't have asked for a more knowledgeable and forthcoming person - who was smart enough to hand it over to the kids for everything.

I'm at a loss for words. My deepest condolences to the Beck family and everyone else.

Don Rotolo

[Lil' Lavery]

The term "second father," gets thrown around a lot. But when discussing Mr. Beck, the term came up from almost everyone I talked to.
He was a terrific mentor and a terrific individual, and made a great impression upon me in our very brief encounters.
You have to look no further than the outstanding caliber and behavior of the Cybersonics to see what kind of leader he was.

I have no words to express the sorrow and condolences I want to.
Dave Beck, you will not be forgotten.

[MishraArtificer]

There's a grief that can't be spoken, there's a pain goes on and on.
Empty chairs at empty tables…now my friends are dead and gone.
Here they talked of revolution, here it was they lit the flame.
Here they sang about tomorrow, but tomorrow never came.
From the table in the corner, they could see a world reborn.
And they rose with voices ringing, and I can hear them now!
The very words that they had sung became their last Communion on the lowly barricade…at dawn…
Oh my friends, my friends forgive me, that I live and you are gone.
There's a grief that can't be spoken…there's a pain goes on and on.
Phantom faces at the window, phantom shadows on the floor.
Empty chairs at empty tables, where my friends will meet no more.
Oh my friends, my friends, don't ask me what your sacrifice was for!
Empty chairs at empty tables, where my friends will sing no more...
All the words have been said for us...

[Barry Bonzack]

The Beck family has been with 103 since the beginning, and many lives have been touched through their efforts. This thread was started this morning, and I'm just now finding out about it four pages later. I only hope to touch so many lives while I spend my time on this Earth. My prayers will be with all of those close to Dave Beck.

[Akash Rastogi]

After collecting my thoughts, I just wanted to say another thing about how Dave Beck affected me directly or indirectly.

At Philly when I talked to him for the first time, he actually already knew my name! I was thrilled at the thought of someone like him actually knowing about me. Me, a kid. Just another kid who looked up to this guy like another FIRST hero. In 2007 when I started FRC on MORT I asked our mentors who to talk to in order to learn more about FIRST, a few mentors came out such as Tim Leicht, Wayne Cokely, and then Mr. and Mrs. Beck(If you are from NJ, you know the significance of these people). Our mentors and team have great respect for anyone trying to establish a new sense of respect for engineering in their school district, and I think Mr. Beck is a testament to this. When I asked our mentors and the seniors in 2007 who our team looks up to the most, it was team 103 among the cream of the crop. Its difficult to understand how someone I've only talked to once can make such an impact on my thinking of FIRST and how a team should be run, but I have to be honest, the way he ran 103 is exactly how I want to run my future teams. Everyone on here can only hope that they can run a team half as well as Dave Beck ran 103, and that in itself is something amazing. Clearly, I wasn't the only person he affected with a brief discussion, but I d@mn sure know that I have all the respect in the world for him.

Mr. Beck, thank you for supporting my ideas for the future of FIRST teams everywhere, you will be missed terribly.

[Jreed129]

First I would like to thank everyone who has shown their sympathy towards the Beck family, and team 103.

Dave Beck, has shaped who I am today from the timid 9th grader I was when I joined team 103 to being the current president and head animator for the 2008-2009 season.

By bringing the FIRST program into Palisades School District he has help to influence hundreds of student in what we can all agree is the "right" direction.

One of the speeches that Mr. Beck gave every year or just this past year started: "Being apart of this group you are the students who get "it"..." What "it" is I think we can all see in who Dave was, a Father, Teacher, Mentor, and Friend. He truly help to spread Dean's vision of what FIRST should be and where it should lead students in today's society.

For me he will never be forgotten because he has made me the leader I am today through the FIRST program.

to end my deepest condolences go to Cathy, and Cassie Beck

"In nomine patri, et fili, spiritu sancte"

[popnbrown]

My first realization of this great man was when during 2007 NJ Regional, Mr. Beck was running down the stairs for an award and he had blue hair on in spirit of his team, and my team, the majority of whom have known Mr. Beck very well, yelled "Nice hair! Mr. Beck" From then on, I've spoken with him and met him several times, and every single time he inspired me.

I was reading all the comments above and being this is such unexpected news almost went to tears. He was such a great inspiration for my team, even though he wasn't a mentor. Everyone on my team would see him and recognize him...hey, that's mr. Beck, you know Team 103 (yes that awesome team), He's the main guy behind them.

I'm just confused..and at a loss of words. It's sad...and unfortunate...and upsetting that he won't be there to give us tips on fixing up our robot or laughing with us.

Cassie and Mrs. Beck as well as Team 103 you are one of my team's closest friends and for everything you have done for giving us the smiles and the extra cheering at Philly, thank you and offer our help in anyway we can.

Mr. Beck, although we may not have spent the most time together, you are still a man of great inspiration for me and will always be remembered in my mind and in my heart. Thank you for all that you have given us, thank you for making this world take another step. You will be dearly missed....thank you.

[Carmine Rizzo]

Team 75 and I would like to offer our condolences to the Beck Family and to Team 103. This is sad event for the FIRST family. I have known Dave for several years and I am sadden with this news and still shocked. Dave has been a familiar face in the NJ venue and is a person we would like to emulate when it comes to Mentoring. May we keep Dave and his family in our thoughts and prayers and never forget his goals and dreams.

Carmine
Lead Mentor Team 75

[EricVanWyk]

I've spoken to many people today about the news, and read each post several times. In doing so, my feelings have moved from grief and sorrow to happiness and inspiration.

I believe that admiration is the seed of grief. Identify this admiration and introspect. Find the pieces of his life that you admire and want, and incorporate them into your own. It is the duty of those left behind to look to the departed's life as a means to reflect on their own: The clarity of death which allows us to focus on what is truly important is their final gift.

In this vein, Dave leaves us with a lot to think about. He was an inspiring individual that gives each of us a bit of direction, and I am happy to see all of the lives he has given to.

Thank You Dave.

[Cascade]

Condolences from 1622, peace be with you all.

[nlknauss]

Dave Beck certainly touched my life and was certainly one of a few influences who made me want to be a Technology Education Teacher. I've had the pleasure of having a few conversations with him over years as a student and a mentor and can always remember walking away feeling grateful for the time spent. Dave always greeted me with a "hello" or a wave at every glance and was always willing to answer any question I had. Much of how my rookie team is assembled this year is a result of those conversations and influences he had.

Tonight, I actually had a parents' meeting for my team's trip down to Atlanta next week. One of the team's new advisors began to talk about the qualities of the FIRST program in the values it brings to us as individuals. When he was done, I couldn't help but mention Dave as an example of those qualities and that I wished my students were able to meet him (not in fewer words).

Dave Beck is the standard for us to model as mentors, leaders, and gracious professionals to our students well into the future.

This is certainly way to soon. Condolences go out to the Becks, Team 103, and Palisades HS for their loss personally and from Team 2729.

Sincerely,
Nate

[Al Skierkiewicz]

May I pass along condolences from Wildstang. There are few enough good people that go out and help where needed. Dave will be missed.

[Karthik]

Dave Beck was a great man. May peace be with him.

My condolences go out to his family and friends.

[Pat Roche]

I am in complete shock. Hearing this news is like being hit by a freight train. I'd like to pass my most heartfelt condolences to the Beck family. The passing of Dave Beck sends a ripple through our entire community. I first met Dave Beck back in 2002 at the UTC regional. I competed every year of high school and several times since leaving high school, with Cybersonics. One of the most striking things was the affection his students showed him. The love that was shown for him is absolutely incredible. He led with grace, integrity and passion. He was always there to lend a helping hand and exchange ideas. He was also a visionary with a mind to the future of how to evolve the program as a whole. There are very few mentors who do what he did for our community. I feel truly privileged to have known him for these short few years. There are not enough good words that can be said about him nor sorrowful ones at that news of his passing. It is a deep cut to lose such an amazing man as Dave Beck. May peace be with you now Mr. Beck.


-Patrick Roche

[DCA Fan]

My sincere condolences to 103 and the Beck Family. I met Dave many years ago at Championships and was amazed at his energy and passion for FIRST. His passing is a huge loss to the FIRST community.

[coldfusion1279]

Team 1279 offers our condolences and prayers for Dave Beck's family an friends in this difficult time. Know that our team looks up to the team that Mr. Beck built as a shining role model of FIRST. Rest in peace.

[GaryVoshol]

I didn't even know it, but it sounds like Dave Beck should have been on my "must meet someday" list. Now that meeting must be postponed - but it will happen.

My condolences to his family, his team, and all those he has touched over the years.

[howelles]

To the Beck family and Team 103, my sincerest condolences. I only wish I could have known him better. That which I do know causes me to desire to be like him in many ways.
"Whatsoever thy hand findeth to do, do it with thy might". Dave is one of the FIRST heroes.

[DBodmer19]

The news of Dave's passing is a shock to all of us in the FIRST community. We will all miss his dedication and vision for FIRST. Team 11 sends our prayers and condolences to Cathy, Cassie and the entire Cybersonics Family. May everyone find comfort during this very difficult time.

[jessjank.]

Link to a well written local news article on Dave's passing: http://www.msnbc.msn.com/id/30083626/ and http://www.phillyburbs.com/news/news_details/article/27/2009/april/07/longtime-teacher-dave-beck-dies.html (contains photos)

Still feeling so very lost.

[Jreed129]

Here's the information that just came out. Please pass the info to everyone else who would want it.


Calling hours on Thursday, April 9th from 9-11 a.m. followed by a service from 11 a.m.-12 noon at the Bachman, Kulick, and Reinsmith Funeral Home, (http://www.bachmankulikreinsmith.com/index.cfm) 1629 Hamilton Street, Allentown, PA (across the street from St. Luke’s Hospital-Allentown).
The family will allow people to speak about Dave and share their memories following the service.
Burial will be at the Resurrection Cemetery


From 78 East (from Harrisburg, Kutztown)
78 East to Hamilton Blvd Exit (Exit 54). At Light off exit turn Left on Hamilton Blvd. Continue on Hamilton Blvd., (which turns into Hamilton Street) for 3 miles. As you pass 19th Street, get into the Left Lane. Stay on Hamilton Street, cross 17th Street, and the entrance for the parking lot will be two hundred feet on your left.

From Interstate 78 West (from NY, NJ, Bethlehem)
78 West, to Hamilton Blvd Exit (Exit 54 B). Continue on Hamilton Blvd., (which turns into Hamilton Street) for 3 miles. As you pass 19th Street, get into the Left Lane. Stay on Hamilton Street, cross 17th Street, and the entrance for the parking lot will be two hundred feet on your left.

From Philadelphia
Northeast Extension (476 N.) to Lehigh Valley Exit. Follow 22 East for one exit to 309 South. Follow 309S to Hamilton Blvd Exit (Exit 54). At light off exit turn Left Hamilton Blvd. Continue on Hamilton Blvd., (which turns into Hamilton Street) for 3 miles. As you pass 19th Street, get into the Left Lane. Stay on Hamilton Street, cross 17th Street, and the entrance for the parking lot will be two hundred feet on your left.

From Rt 22 East (From Cetronia, Western Allentown)
22 East to 15th Street Exit. At light off exit turn Right onto 15th Street. Continue on 15th Street to Tilghman Street. Turn Right on Tilghman Street. Go 2 blocks to 17th Street and turn Left. Follow 17th Street to Hamilton Street. Funeral Home on Left on corner of 17th & Hamilton Streets.

From Rt 22 West (from Phillipsburg NJ, Easton, Bethlehem)
22 West to 15th Street Exit. At light off exit turn Left onto 15th Street. Continue on 15th Street to Tilghman Street. Turn Right on Tilghman Street. Go 2 blocks to 17th Street and turn Left. Follow 17th Street to Hamilton Street. Funeral Home is on Left on corner of 17th & Hamilton Streets.

From Scranton
South on Northeast Extension (476 S.) to Lehigh Valley Exit. Follow 22 East to 309 South. Follow 309S to Hamilton Blvd Exit (Exit 54). At light off exit turn Left onto Hamilton Blvd. Continue on Hamilton Blvd., (which turns into Hamilton Street) for 3 miles. As you pass 19th Street, get into the Left Lane. Stay on Hamilton Street, cross 17th Street, and the entrance for the parking lot will be two hundred feet on your left.

[BrianT103]

Dave Beck was an incredible mentor, teacher and friend. The first time I walked through the doors of Palisades High School 4 years ago, I knew that I would be in good company with Mr. Beck. Dave was the most influential and inspiring man of my life, and the success of the team is a direct result of this man's hard work and dedication to empowering his students. Over the past days I have come to terms with his death, but I will never forget his legacy and most of all his passion for excellence. Most teachers are willing to stay after school for a couple of hours to help their students, but Mr. Beck is the only teacher that I had that is willing to sacrifice so much time and energy for the betterment of his students(along with mrs. beck and mr. reilly). There were so many things that I wanted to say to him when I graduated, but hopefully he realized just how big of an impact he had on my life. The man is truly irreplaceable.

Here's to an amazing four years, I will miss you dearly.

[hayleybayley217]

Aww...
I've wanted to post something, but I am speechless with what to say. The more I read the more I wish I met this guy.

To Team 103 and the Beck Family: You guys are in out prayers. I know from experience that losing someone that has inspired you, as much as David Beck has, is really hard. The ThunderChickens went through a lost of a close teacher early Dec. of last year. If you guys ever need anything, just let us know. Just remember you have the FIRST family behind you.<3

[jessjank.]

I finally have had some time to sit and think without crying and thought I'd add some words about Mr. Beck. Dave Beck sacrificed so much for the good of so many others, in particular for the team. He lived, breathed, and bled Cybersonics. In doing so, he made an impact on more people than I think he ever realized, because through each of us who he met and influenced he has and will continue to make an impact on others. The sacrifices he made in his life to ensure that we had the best possible experience of anyone in FIRST certainly prepared us for so much to come in our futures. He recognized what it took to be successful and achieve greatness, and worked so incredibly hard to make it happen while still having more fun than anyone else. Though he asked us to, in his words, commit "unreasonable" amounts of time and energy to the team, we could be certain that this was a completely worthwhile investment because Mr. Beck believed in it so unwaveringly. His perseverance pushed and motivated me to achieve my greatest potential and made me realize just how much I wanted to stay involved with FIRST even after I graduated and left the team. I want to make sure others get to experience everything we had a chance to experience on 103 because we had Mr. Beck as our mentor, teacher, leader, friend, father figure, and hero. You don't know how much I am going to miss that big "bobo" with the blue wig and mischievous grin... Thank you for everything Mr. Beck.

[jessjank.]

Some people have been asking for this information. Thanks for everyone's support. I know Cathy, Cassie, and all of team 103 (past and present) are all so very appreciative.

Flowers may sent to the funeral home:
Bachman, Kulik & Reinsmith Funeral Homes, P.C.
1629 Hamilton Street
Allentown, Pennsylvania 18102
Phone: 610-432-4128
Fax: 610-965-1121

Donations may be sent to:
The Leukemia Lymphoma Society
ATTN: Dr. Bart Kamen
1311 Mamaroneck Avenue
White Plains, NY 10605

[slickguy2007]

I am still so shocked by this news. This is one of the few times in my life that I really don't know what to say. After reading through all the posts, I realize that everyone already knows what kind of man David Beck was. His kindness, love for life, and generosity are all things that everyone admired about him. Anyone that knew Beck knows that he had a certain inspirational charm that only a few people in this world possess. He will be deeply missed by the FIRST family.

Team 103, Beck was a great mentor and leader. It is very hard to lose someone like that. You will be in our thoughts and prayers.

Cassie and Mrs.Beck, I would like to offer my condolences. I can only imagine what you must be going through. You will be in our thoughts and prayers.

Requiscat in Pace, David Beck

[GeorgeTheEng]

The service today was beautiful and it was wonderful to here all the incredible words about him. I know that he would have been overwhelmed by the turnout from the community, his friends, family, and his FIRST family.

[BRAVESaj25bd8]

Thank you for everything Mr. Beck. I am so grateful to have known such a wonderful man. I will miss you. We will all miss you. Once again, thank you for everything.

[Wayne C.]

Announcement-

Team 11 MORT is creating commemorative robot stickers for teams at the Championships to honor Dave. This is akin to the way MLB and NFL players put a fallen comrade's number on their helmet to remember them.

I urge all teams who knew Dave or played with the Cybersonics over the years to stop by 11's pits on Thursday and get a sticker. They are in Galileo.

WC :cool:

[Kyle]

I had the pleasure to meet Mr. Beck at many competitions throughout my time in FIRST, he was always glad to talk about everything and anything to do with 103 or FIRST and was always a pleasure to talk to, my deepest condolences to team 103 and the Beck family.

[Akash Rastogi]

Thanks Wayne, I'll post up some things once everything is finalized. We hope that what we've done shows our sincere respect for David Beck. I'll keep everyone posted.

[Rich Kressly]

Some people have been asking for this information. Thanks for everyone's support. I know Cathy, Cassie, and all of team 103 (past and present) are all so very appreciative.

Flowers may sent to the funeral home:
Bachman, Kulik & Reinsmith Funeral Homes, P.C.
1629 Hamilton Street
Allentown, Pennsylvania 18102
Phone: 610-432-4128
Fax: 610-965-1121

Donations may be sent to:
The Leukemia Lymphoma Society
ATTN: Dr. Bart Kamen
1311 Mamaroneck Avenue
White Plains, NY 10605

In addition, there is more information about a Dave Beck Scholarship Fund at Palisades HS posted here:
http://www.palisadessd.org/606312071710115/blank/browse.asp?a=383&BMDRN=2000&BCOB=0&c=53824

Along with a very nice tribute here:
http://palisadessd.org/palisades/site/default.asp

[mark johnson]

Team 103 is a great team because It reflects from Dave. Your team has to carry on as a great team because thats how Dave would have wanted it . GOD SPEED DAVE!!!!!!!!!!!

[jessjank.]

I was requested to forward this message to all of you:

I just wanted to say on behalf of my entire family, thank you so much for the incredible support and love you have shown the family and my uncle. It is truly unbelievable. It has been a hard week or so, and there will be hard weeks ahead, but we will get through it together. Your presence at the funeral on Thursday was a great tribute to my uncle's life. We are all so proud that he has touched so many, and express our greatest thanks for your 800+ person attendance. I know if my uncle could have spoken, he would have gotten on the mic, smirked and said,"What are all you bobo's doin', don't waste the day here! Go do something!" hahaha

With sincerest gratitude,
Meredith Beck