Leslie A. Beck

Leslie A. Beck, 98, formerly of 199 Hazeltine Ave., Jamestown, died April 3, 2012, in the Heritage Park Rehab and Skilled Nursing Facility.A lifetime resident of Jamestown, Leslie was born January 15, 1914, the son of LaMott and Nellie Beck. He was a 1932 graduate of Jamestown High School. He played football as well as competing in track in high school and was a member of the National Athletic Scholarship Society.

Once out of school he continued to pursue sports by playing football, softball and baseball in Jamestown and other area sports leagues, becoming a rollerskate floor manager and instructor, and organizing the Chautauqua Lake Archers.

Leslie served in the United States Army during World War II as a second lieutenant and was a paratroop and demolition instructor. He was stationed in Japan during the years that the Pacific Olympics were held, and was a captain on the football team from the 11th Airborne which won in 1945 and 1946 at the Army Pacific Olympics championship held in Tokyo.

In 1999 Les was inducted into the Chautauqua Sports Hall of Fame.

He spent 26 years in the Jamestown Fire Department with 8 years as assistant fire chief. After retirement Les enjoyed golf, bowling, and was an active member of the JHS Sports Boosters. In addition to his parents, Leslie is preceded in death by his wife Viola Beck and his brother Orsell Beck.

Leslie will be dearly missed by his stepdaughter Lonnie Kish of Florida, nephew Richard Beck of Connecticut, niece Linda Beck of Lakewood, and devoted friend Jodi Crawford of Jamestown, with whom he enjoyed a father/daughter-like relationship for many years.

At the request of Leslie, there will be no service. Memorials may be made to the Chautauqua County Humane Society, 2825 Strunk Road, Jamestown, New York 14701.