David and I were close friends in Jr. high and high school, often spending time together working on and customizing old cars. He was a genius car builder and although we drifted apart after graduation, I will always hold his friendship in high regard.
Sad to see Dave's name on the North update.
I ran into Dave several years ago at a body shop/paint supply store. He was driving his recently restored '64 Buick Riviera. It was flawless and unbelievably straight. I complimented him and applauded his skills!
I spent 48 years in that industry, and I know full well what it takes to build a car to that level......Wow!
I haven't seen him in probably 20 - 25 years, but I can still remember his wild laugh! RIP Dave.
Not a HS classmate, but wish to add a comment to the notice on David Beckel passing. David and I met in the Army, and ended up in the same 520th battalion, helicopter mechanics, Vietnam, ‘68-‘69. We connected through cars, and I see from others it was common. I have built a few, David helped me find a worthy ‘56 Nomad to bring back to Illinois, in 1974 and it turned out well. When my job would bring me to Wichita, Learjet, I would look him up and visit his shop. His demand for perfection resulted in fantastic work, but also turmoil with others. His talent was unmistakable, easy to recognize, but I know that does not always get rewarded. I tried to stay in contact over the years from California, but recently he refused to answer. I knew he was a victim of his experiences, damaged by the time in country, and it is a painful thing to watch happen. I am so sorry I was not one to help, but I know there are times when no one can. Rest easy now David, I will remember you always! KC
William Rickman
David and I were close friends in Jr. high and high school, often spending time together working on and customizing old cars. He was a genius car builder and although we drifted apart after graduation, I will always hold his friendship in high regard.
Donald Sailing (Sailing)
Sad to see Dave's name on the North update.
I ran into Dave several years ago at a body shop/paint supply store. He was driving his recently restored '64 Buick Riviera. It was flawless and unbelievably straight. I complimented him and applauded his skills!
I spent 48 years in that industry, and I know full well what it takes to build a car to that level......Wow!
I haven't seen him in probably 20 - 25 years, but I can still remember his wild laugh! RIP Dave.
Anita Cummins (Wiley)
Not a HS classmate, but wish to add a comment to the notice on David Beckel passing. David and I met in the Army, and ended up in the same 520th battalion, helicopter mechanics, Vietnam, ‘68-‘69. We connected through cars, and I see from others it was common. I have built a few, David helped me find a worthy ‘56 Nomad to bring back to Illinois, in 1974 and it turned out well. When my job would bring me to Wichita, Learjet, I would look him up and visit his shop. His demand for perfection resulted in fantastic work, but also turmoil with others. His talent was unmistakable, easy to recognize, but I know that does not always get rewarded. I tried to stay in contact over the years from California, but recently he refused to answer. I knew he was a victim of his experiences, damaged by the time in country, and it is a painful thing to watch happen. I am so sorry I was not one to help, but I know there are times when no one can. Rest easy now David, I will remember you always! KC