3/9/25
Henry Beck 90, of Skaneateles passed away peacefully at his home surrounded by his family.
Henry was born on October 6, 1934 in Munich Germany. After finishing his apprenticeship as a toolmaker, he spent two years in Brazil training others on the proper use of toolmaking equipment. This is a time in his life he often reflected on with fond memories.
Henry immigrated to the United States in 1956 at 22 years old and worked for the Deckel Corp. Installing precise toolmaking equipment across the country. He would eventually join the Deckel’s sales team.
Henry loved the United States and really enjoyed his time at Deckel and all the opportunities the company gave him to travel this beautiful country.
In 1973 he saved enough money and had enough courage to risk everything to start Tessy Plastics in Elbridge, NY, which has now grown to 11 manufacturing plants and employs over 1,800 people worldwide and continues as a successful family business.
He married his childhood sweetheart, Helga, in 1960 and is survived by her, three boys: Ralph, Roland, and Ken, seven grandchildren, and two great-grandchildren.
Henry loved skiing, bicycling and hiking. He was always busy working or playing every minute he was awake.
Henry enjoyed spending time with his family and it meant a lot to him that everyone got along. If Henry had one wish, it would be that anyone who reads this reaches out and attempts to mend a soured relationship.
Calling hours will be held on Thursday, March 13 th from 4 to 8pm at Robert D. Gray Funeral Home, Skaneateles. Funeral mass will be held on Friday, March 14 th at 10am at St. Mary’s of the Lake Church, with a reception to follow. Burial will be private at St. Mary’s Cemetery.
The family would like to thank everyone who has cared for him during his final days which include Denise and her crew, the Commons in Auburn, Auburn Community Hospital, Upstate Community Hospital and Hospice of CNY.
In Lieu of flowers donations in Henry’s name can be made to Hospice of CNY or to the American Cancer Society. To send condolences, visit: robertdgrayfuneralhome.com.
My deepest sympathies to the Beck family. Many years ago I used to walk my dog on Coon Hill Rd. Most mornings I would run into Henry with his beloved bernese mountain dog. We would joke about the steep hill, chat about skiing in Colorado and laugh about our age difference. Henry was 70, I was 34. I moved away from Skaneateles and I didn't get to say good-bye before I left.
Just a few years ago I was walking around Marcellus Park with my daughter and I saw a man on the path with a bernese mountain dog. I knew it was Henry! He recognized me immediately. I was happy I got to introduce my daughter to your sweet,…
Hilga
So sorry for your loss - my mother loved you both. Gregg Maurer
I worked for Mr. Beck in the ‘80’s and ‘90’s & I remember several conversations with him… one in particular in the original warehouse one Saturday morning- he asked me what I thought my weaknesses were and I said I’m very impatient- he smiled and said that was one of the things he liked about me- he told me to consider it a strength! He was very fair & personable. He invited me to the Christmas party even after I left the company and he encouraged me to be my best self. He was a true gentleman and leader. God Bless him and his family.
I'll be unable to attend the calling hours today but my sincere condolences to the family. My wife, Laurie, passed away a year and a half ago and I know how hard it is to lose someone you deeply love. Mr. Beck was a compassionate gentleman who will be deeply missed.
My deepest condolences to Helga, Roland, Kenny & Ralph. They were wonderful neighbors and we’ve kept in touch over the years because of our love of skiing. Henry was a wonderful man and will be sorely miss. RIP