Robert Wendell Beck, 94, Avilla, died Thursday, Jan. 31, 2019. Mr. Beck was born June 14, 1924, in Syracuse, to Calvin E. and Izel B. (Whitehead) Beck.

He graduated from Syracuse High School in 1942 and attended Indiana University where he played basketball. In May of 1943, he enlisted in the United States Army and honorably served his country during WWII. In March of 1946, he was separated from the Army and he enrolled at Manchester College in North Manchester, to complete his degree and play basketball. Later, he was inducted into the Manchester College Hall of Fame for his achievements in basketball.

After he graduated from Manchester, he was a teacher and coach for 14 years at Avilla High School. He left education to begin a new career in school equipment sales with Imperial Supply and later farm equipment sales with S.C.S of Franklin. He married Audra M. Schilling on Dec. 31, 1949, and she preceded him in death on July 8, 2016. Wendell enjoyed playing golf and fishing.

Survivors include his daughters: Wendy (Joe) Kelley, Plymouth; Cindy (John) Davis, Pittsboro; Jennifer (Gregory) Leonard, Denver, Colo.; son, Bob Beck, Orlando, Fla.; seven grandchildren and seven great grandchildren. He was preceded in death by two brothers, Charles Beck and Richard Beck.

Visitation will be held from 1-3 p.m., Tuesday, Feb. 19, at Hite Funeral Home, Kendallville. A memorial service will follow the visitation at 3 p.m., at Hite Funeral Home.

Arrangements entrusted to Hite Funeral Home.