Sad news - John Beck

[hrock]

john was wonderful in every way, friendly to all and happy to help.
I cant count the conversations i have had with people that end with:
john would know or i should ash john about that some time.

my thoughts go to Doug and wish him well soon.

 

[Pitlamp]

His name will always be associated with the Peak Cavern system because John Beck's Chamber (beyond Surprise View Sump) was named after him a few years ago. John was the only person to set foot in that somewhat exclusive place (during a major siphoning exercise on Sunday 8th December 1985) until it was finally regained some 21 years later, after a protracted diving campaign. He was characteristically helpful in supplying detailed information whilst efforts were being made to pass the difficult 13 m sump barring the way. John was actually with me in Peak Cavern on the day I eventually got through that awful sump on 3rd January 2007. I'll never forget his beaming smile when I surfaced on the return and reported the news.

For a hilarious description of that 1985 siphoning epic see Nick Butcher's article in TSG Journal No.11, 1986.

 

[yrammy]

Very sad news indeed. R.I.P. 

 

[mulucaver]

Just returned to civilisation to hear this very sad news. I've known John for over 40 years and was once a regular with him, Doug and Ron at all of the Eyam drinking venues. Never known him to say a bad word about anybody. A true gentleman who will be greatly missed.

 

[bograt]

Agree with you on that Dave, although he did say a bad word to me when I put an extra 50ft depth on Waterfall Hole the day after he drew up the survey! : :

Any news on the farewell ceremony yet?

 

[Mark]

Had an email from Isobel (John's sister), to let as many people as possible know, that
John's Funeral will be held at Eyam Church, on Tuesday 24th February at 11:00 AM

 

[yrammy]

What a send off. #thatisall

 

[mch]

Yes, a very moving service appreciated by a packed church.

 

[Jenny P]

Check the Library section of UKcaving for news of John and Doug's collection of books and surveys, bequeathed to BCRA.