Robert Beck Jr.

BECK ROBERT E. BECK, JR. (Age 63) Formerly of Hagerstown, MD, died, May 24, 2008 in Tamuning, Guam. Born September 2, 1944 in Hagerstown, he was the son of Robert E. Beck Sr. of Hagerstown and the late Ruth Powles Beck. Mr. Beck graduated from North Hagerstown High School in 1962 and continued his education at the University of Maryland obtaining a Bachelors degree in education with a concentration in Zoology. In 1974, he moved to Guam and was a school teacher on the island for several years. After teaching he became a Zoologist for the Guam Department of Agriculture, Division of Aquatic and Wildlife Resources. In that capacity, he became well known for his contributions to the successful captive breeding of the endangered Guam Micronesian Kingfisher and Guam Rail birds.Exhibits of these birds are in multiple zoos throughout the country, including the National Zoo in Washington, DC and the San Diego Zoo in California. Bob's passion for birds was only surpassed by thejoy and pride he took in his two children, Erik R. Beck of New York City and Joanna R. Beck of Washington, DC. The family will receive friends at Rest Haven Funeral Chapel, 1601 Pennsylvania Ave. Hagerstown, on Saturday, May 31 from 1 to 2 p.m., with a brief memorial service to follow. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to Robert E. Beck Jr. memorial fund through the Washington National Zoo. Money will be used to support efforts to save and protect the Guam Rail, Guam Micronesian Kingfisher, the Mariana Crow, and other related programs. Attention: Daniel Kemp, Major Gifts Manager: Friends of the national Zoo, P.O. Box 37012 MRC 5516 Washington, DC 20013-7012.In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to Robert E. Beck Jr. memorial fund through the Washington National Zoo. Money will be used to support efforts to save and protect the Guam Rail, Guam Micronesian Kingfisher, the Mariana Crow, and other related programs. Attention: Daniel Kemp, Major Gifts Manager: Friends of the national Zoo, P.O. Box 37012 MRC 5516 Washington, DC 20013-7012.