If you spot Dave Beck at a Tennessee baseball game, give him a salute. He’s earned it, according to Adams.
If you attend a Tennessee baseball game, you might encounter unexpected faces. The crowd has significantly increased since Tony Vitello took over as coach in 2017. Notable attendees include Earl and Judy Brown, renowned fans in UT history, who have been present since the days when the number of fans at Lindsey Nelson Stadium could be counted in a single inning.
Another familiar figure is Dave Beck, not as instantly recognizable as Earl or Judy, but a longstanding contributor to Tennessee baseball. Beck’s association with the program began in 1993 when former coach Rod Delmonico invited him after hearing him speak at a Knoxville civic club. Serving as the team chaplain, Beck formed a lasting friendship with Todd Helton, the star first baseman for the Colorado Rockies.
Beck’s history extends beyond his connection with Helton; he is one of UT’s distinguished graduates. Despite never making a basket, hitting a home run, or scoring a touchdown for the Vols, the Marine lieutenant colonel stands out as one of UT’s best athletes. Even at 70, just five years ago, he was running marathons and doing hundreds of pushups daily.
However, Beck now faces challenges. Diagnosed with Parkinson’s disease and diabetes, he continues to display resilience. Reflecting on his life, Beck expresses gratitude for his 53-year marriage, five children, 18 grandchildren, and four great-grandchildren. His diverse career includes roles as a pilot, battalion commander, attorney, and judge advocate in the Marines, with post-military success as a renowned lawyer at Knoxville’s Garza Law Firm.
Beck’s journey has taken him globally through court cases, and despite his health challenges, he remains optimistic. Born four years after his father, once listed as “killed in action” in World War II, returned, Beck considers himself fortunate. He attributes his survival to divine intervention.
The onset of Parkinson’s, likely linked to contaminated water exposure during his time at the Marine Corps Air Station in Jacksonville, North Carolina, has altered Beck’s abilities. Despite the limitations, he remains determined and refuses to be disheartened.
Looking ahead, Beck plans to support Tennessee baseball, following his grandson Evan Goins at Cleveland State Community College. He anticipates attending the College World Series if the Vols qualify, missing only one venture during its first occurrence due to a trial in Japan.
