Alverda M. Beck
Alverda Marie Beck, passed away peacefully on February 8, 2024, at MercyOne Medical Center in Dubuque, Iowa. Born on April 20, 1934, in the pastoral surroundings of Jackson County, IA, Alverda’s life was defined by her enduring strength, compassion, and dedication to her loved ones and her faith.
Raised on the family farm, she was the daughter of Albert and Elda (Felderman) Wiegert Sr. Alverda’s formative years were spent in a one-room schoolhouse, nurturing a love for learning that remained with her throughout her life. She graduated from Andrew High School in 1952, carrying with her the values of hard work and perseverance. Alverda married the love of her life, John F. Beck, on September 15, 1962, in St. Donatus, Iowa, and together they welcomed three children into the world: David, Sheila, and Duane.
Before her marriage, Alverda was employed at the Fishing Tackle Company in Maquoketa, served patrons at the Bon Ton Restaurant as a waitress, and contributed her skills to the Ensign Coil Company in Bellevue. Once married, she joined her husband in farming the land in rural Preston, a vocation she embraced with tenacity and pride. After the untimely passing of her husband John in 1978, Alverda took the reins of the family farm, managing it with the same fortitude and attention to detail that she applied to every aspect of her life.
Alverda was a member of St. John’s Lutheran Church in St. Donatus, where she once taught Sunday School, before transferring her membership to First Lutheran Church in Maquoketa. Her dedication to her faith was matched by her involvement with the Fraternal Order of the Eagles Club in Maquoketa, where she found fellowship and community.
A woman of many talents, Alverda found joy in the simple pleasures of life. Her gardens were a testament to her patient toil and her love for nature, while her sewing projects reflected her meticulous craftsmanship. She especially enjoyed cooking and playing games with her grandchildren.
Alverda’s legacy is carried on by her loving family, who continue to honor her memory: children Sheila (Bill) Norris of Huxley, IA, and Duane Beck of Preston, IA; daughter-in-law Jill Beck of MO; her adored grandchildren Josh Norris, Jessica Norris, Jacob (Christine) Beck, and Christy (Wesley) Dickinson; and her brothers Albert Jr. Wiegert of Maquoketa, IA, Eldon Wiegert of Loveland, CO, and Harold Wiegert of Dubuque, IA. She also leaves behind her sister-in-law Rita Wiegert of Bellevue, IA, along with several nieces and nephews who will miss her presence dearly.
Alverda was preceded in death by her parents, her husband John, her son Dr. David Beck, and her brothers Laverne Wiegert and Raymond Wiegert. She was also predeceased by sisters-in-law Mary, Judy, and Sandy Wiegert, and her niece Brenda Beck, and nephew Roland Wiegert.
A celebration of her life will be held at 11:30 A.M., Thursday, February 15, 2024, at First Lutheran Church in Maquoketa, Iowa. Visitation will be held from 4 to 7 P.M., Wednesday, February 14, 2024, at Carson Celebration of Life Center in Maquoketa, and again on Thursday after 10:30 A.M. at the church. Burial will be at Mount Hope Cemetery, Maquoketa.
In lieu of other expressions of sympathy, memorials may be made to First Lutheran Church in Maquoketa.
Online condolences may be left at www.CarsonAndSon.com.