Joseph Donald "Don" Beck

Joseph Donald “Don” Beck, of Estero, Florida, passed away peacefully on July 26, 2026, at the age of 80. Born on April 15, 1946, in Baltimore, Maryland, Don was the beloved son of Joseph Andrew Beck and Agnes Redel Beck. Don graduated from Loyola High School in Baltimore, Maryland, in 1964. A gifted athlete, he fulfilled a lifelong dream by signing with the Minnesota Twins organization immediately following high school. He played professional baseball as a catcher for the Orlando Twins in the Florida State League and later continued his career with the Atlanta Braves organization. In recognition of his outstanding athletic achievements, Don was inducted into the Loyola Blakefield Athletics Hall of Fame, an honor that reflected both his talent and dedication to the game. Baseball remained one of his lifelong passions, and the friendships, experiences, and memories he made through the sport were among those he treasured most. Outside of baseball, Don found peace and happiness in the outdoors. He especially loved hunting and treasured the time spent in the woods, enjoying nature and sharing those experiences with family and friends. Don was preceded in death by his parents, Joseph Andrew Beck and Agnes Redel Beck; and his sister, Pat Fouts, and her husband, Les Fouts. Above all, Don was a devoted husband and family man whose greatest joy came from the people he loved. He is survived by his beloved wife of 41 years, Aline Beck; his daughter, Dina Beck, and her son, Andrew Pizolato; his daughter, Noelle Beck Taslitz, and her husband, Steven Taslitz, along with their children, Brock Petterson, Spencer Petterson, and Forrest Petterson, and Forrest’s husband, Chris; his stepson, Randy McDole, and his wife, Deanna McDole, along with their daughter, Alesia Carrico, and her husband, Josh Carrico; his sister, Joann Carletti, and her husband, Rick Carletti; as well as many beloved nieces, nephews, extended family members, and dear friends. Don will be remembered for his love of family, his passion for baseball, his appreciation for the outdoors, and his quiet strength. He believed in hard work, treating others with kindness and respect, and making the most of every opportunity life presented. Whether sharing stories from his baseball days, spending time with family, enjoying a day in the woods, or simply offering a helping hand, Don left a lasting impression on all who had the privilege of knowing him. His legacy lives on through the lives of his family and friends, who will forever cherish the memories they shared with him. Though he will be deeply missed, his love, laughter, and gentle spirit will remain in their hearts always. In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests that memorial contributions be made in Don’s memory to the American Cancer Society. Donations may be made online at www.cancer.org. Forever loved. Forever remembered. To sign his guest register or to leave online condolences please visit www.ShikanyFuneralHome.com. Arrangements are being handled by Shikany's Bonita Funeral Home Family Owned and Operated Since 1978.

Joseph Donald "Don" Beck

April 15, 1946 - July 26, 2026