The farming community between Penrith and Kendal lost a well known and respected member with the death of James Dover Beck, of Townfoot, Longdale, Tebay, aged 87.
Jimmy, as he was invariably known, was the first child of the late Albert and Catherine Beck. He was followed exactly a year later by his brother David and a few years later by his sister Anne.
Growing up at Townfoot, the brothers were inseparable and often up to mischief. One notable event was when they ran off with their baby sister in her pram to show her off at Longdale School, just around the corner from their home.
Jimmy began his education at Longdale School but after frequent escapes back to the farm he was sent further afield, to Tebay. A bright scholar and a bit of a “whizzkid” at mental arithmetic, he passed his 11-plus exam and continued his education at Appleby Grammar School.
On leaving school at the age of 15 Jimmy began his working life on the family farm. He loved his cows and was an accomplished stockman, sometimes acting as a master judge at stockjudging events.
He was also skilled at silage making and brought trophies home for his award-winning fodder on numerous occasions.
Farming was Jimmy’s passion — he was hard working and determined. As a young man he was involved with the YFC movement and all it had to offer. He also loved football and supported Liverpool FC all his life.
At a young age Jimmy’s life was sadly hit by tragedy when his brother David was killed in a farm accident at the age of 23. He never really came to terms with this.
In 1964 Jimmy had a big day out when he went to the wedding of a friend, the late Tony Nelson, in Glasgow, where he met his future wife, Mary. A friend of the bride, Mary had been brought up with dairy farming, so they were well suited.
They couple in 1968 and began their life together at Townfoot. They went on to have four daughters, Elizabeth, Catherine, Jennifer and Margaret — who went on to be a nurse, a teacher, a farmer and a finance officer.
Never one for holidays, Jimmy had a policy of no sea and no air. He preferred his feet firmly on the ground and that never really changed. He did manage the odd family day away — at St Anne’s on Sea, in Scotland and a memorable picnic at Tan Hill, with a wonderful view.
A quiet and unassuming man, who did not suffer fools gladly. He will be remembered for his shy smile, dry sense of humour and quick wit.
A strong, fit man for most of his life, in his latter years he suffered from dementia and was cared for by his family, carers and latterly the staff at Heron Hill Care Home, in Kendal.
Jimmy is survived by his wife Mary, four daughters, five grandchildren and his sister Anne.
His funeral service was held at All Saints’ Church, Orton, and he was laid to rest in the churchyard.
