Roger Owen Beck, Sr.

Roger Owen Beck, Sr., 80, of Meadville, best known as “OPA” to his family, passed away suddenly on July 3, 2023.

He was born July 20, 1942 at Spencer Hospital to Robert Alexander and Eldora Louise Rodgers Beck.  His siblings: Charles Ansel, Robert Alexander II, and Carol Sue Sivik.  He and his siblings were raised by his grandparents: James C. Rodgers and Ola Olean Rodgers, whom he adored – on their farmland.

Roger graduated from Meadville High School in 1960, he entered USAF soon after and served until 1964, from 1964-1966 he was Inactive Reserve at Bath Iron Works in Maine.  He became employed with Erie Lackawanna, Conrail, and CSX Railroads from 1966-2002, where he was the local union chairman for 12 years.  He retired after 36 years with the railroad.

He was an avid bowler and golfer since his retirement and a diehard sports fan for all PA teams.  His favorite saying: “Go Steelers.”  He was a life member at several clubs:  American Legion Post 205, Elks Lodge 219, Eagles Aerie 429, Vernon Central 23, West Mead 2, and VFW Post 2006.

He married Anita Greta Hahl in 1988 and she preceded him in death in 2018.  He is survived by his only sister, Carol Sue Sivik of FL, and his 3 children: Roger O. Beck, Jr. (Trish) of Maine, Kimberlee Shader of Virginia, and Dawn Rea Wood (Robert) of Maryland; five grandchildren, Juliet, Brooke, and triplets Rachel, Kayla, and Mitchell; two great grandchildren, McKenzie and Joseph; several nieces and nephews and a loving companion, Marty Owen.

As per Roger’s wishes, there will be no funeral service.  Cremation will take place and interment will be at Greendale Cemetery.

Arrangements are under the direction of the Robert W. Waid Funeral Home, 581 Chestnut Street, Meadville where memories and condolences may be shared at www.waidfuneralhome.net