About
Harold Beck Obituary
Born on a farm near Minden, Nebraska, he attended a one-room schoolhouse until the 8th grade. He graduated from Minden High School in 1952 and graduated from Hastings College in 1956, where he met his wife, Nadine Cowan. The couple married in 1956.
He worked for The Paul Revere Life Insurance Company for 42 years.
Hilly was a multi-sport athlete and long-time coach at Baptist Bible College (now Mission University), where he served as the head men's basketball coach from 1987-2002.
He achieved numerous athletic recognitions throughout his life, including inductions into the Nebraska High School Sports Hall of Fame in 2002, the Hastings College Sports Hall of Fame in 1990, and the Missouri Sports Hall of Fame in 2010.
Although Hilly was a fiercely competitive athlete and coach, nothing mattered more to him than his family and his Lord and Savior. He poured out unwavering kindness and love on those around him. A devoted husband, father, and grandfather, he will be remembered as someone who consistently put others before himself. He lived a life with integrity and purpose. He was a man worthy of respect and emulation because of his love for his Lord. Hilly entered heaven hearing the words, "Well done, thou good and faithful servant." Matthew 25:21
He was preceded in death by his parents, Harry and Mabel (Rasmussen) Beck, and by his brothers and sisters in law: Archie and Lois Beck, Richard and Betty Beck, Donald and Marion Beck, and Marshall and Carole Beck.
Hilly is survived by his loving wife of 69 years, Nadine; his daughters, Christy Boston and Julie Beck; his grandson, Brett Boston, and his spouse, Irene; as well as a host of nieces, nephews, other relatives, and friends.
Visitation will be held at Gorman-Scharpf Funeral Home on Friday, January 23, 2026, from 6 pm to 8 pm.
Services in Minden, Nebraska, will be held at a later date. He will be interred in Upland, Nebraska.
In lieu of flowers, the family invites you to make a contribution to the Athletic Department at Mission University (formerly Baptist Bible College).
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
2 Entries
Henley Smith
January 23, 2026
Bob Smith had the highest regard for Hilly, his basketball buddy and friend! They can play now in Heaven!
Henley Smith
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Ron Talburt
January 17, 2026
Hilly was a good friend, mentor,and sales manager for 23 years. He taught me a lot. I was blessed to have him in my life!! Ron Talburt. He will be missed!
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1947 East Seminole Street, Springfield, MO 65804
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