Johannes "Hans" Beek

Johannes “Hans” Cornelis Beek, 87, passed away on Saturday, April 2, 2022. He was born on July 23, 1934, in Amsterdam, Holland to Elsa and Johannes Beek. He married Joyce Kerkkamp on July 30, 1958.  Hans grew up in Amsterdam, Holland during WW2 and spoke many languages.  After immigrating to Canada and then to the U.S. in 1961, he was employed by Sundstrand, Ingersoll Milling Machine, and Toshiba Machine as a Machine and Mechanical Technology Design Engineer. Hans and Joyce were residents of Woodcrest Estates for over 40 years. Hans was generous, charming, and soft-spoken (nicknamed the “Whispering Dutchman”), and was known for his mischievous smile, twinkling eyes, great sense of humor, and well-timed jokes. His passions in life included nature, animals (especially cats), reading, all things mechanical (cars, planes, and trains), and tinkering with anything he felt could be redesigned or made to run “better.” He was quick-witted and enjoyed engaging in meaningful conversation - always offering a unique perspective whether it was a life problem or a mechanical problem. Hans was happiest when sitting outside in the sunshine with his family and pets with a cold glass of beer. He will be dearly missed.

 

Survivors include his daughters, Josette Beek and Mady (Glen) Schlupp of Rockford and Jennifer Howe of Winnebago; grandchildren (who knew him as "Opa"), Cassaundra (Jonathan) Bull, Nicolette Schlupp, Evan Fedorev, and Connor Fedorev; sisters, Ellen Stapper of Jericho, Vermont, and Lieke Beek of Amsterdam,  Holland; niece and nephews; special friends, including Kimberly Garkey, “Dr. Po,” and other exceptional caregivers at Alden Debes and Morning Star Village. Predeceased by his parents; wife of 62 years, Joyce Beek; brother-in-law, Charles Stapper; and brother and sister-in-law, George and Mathilde Prado.

 

A private family service will be held.  The family would appreciate it if you raised a glass to the skies, clinked your glass, and gave him a "cheers".  To honor his love of animals, memorials may be made in his name to the local animal shelter of your choice.