James William Beck, of Bath, only son of Gene and Scottie, devoted husband of 55 years to Barbara, and loving father to Kate, David and Dan, died in his family’s embrace March 24, 2016.

Born in Lewiston December 25, 1934, Jim grew up on the Barley Neck Road in Woolwich, and was a graduate of the class of 1953 at Morse High School in Bath. He enjoyed a long and successful career in banking which began at Maine National Bank in Bath and lasted for many years within the Merrill Trust Company of Bangor. He was an avid and accomplished sportsman, with a deep knowledge and true love of the Maine woods and waterways, hunting and fishing with dear friends and family throughout his life. He was especially proud of the bird hunting prowess of his beloved Brittany, Dutchess.

Jim’s perceptive insights and observations, his infectious good humor and enthusiasm for storytelling touched many, many people throughout his 81 years.

He is predeceased by his parents Eugene and Margaret Beck of Bath; his wife, Barbara Wilson Beck; his in-laws, Harry and Berta Wilson; his sister-in-law Carol Wilson; and many beloved friends, especially John, Bob and Bev, Carol, Clyde, Genie and Leon.

He is survived by his three children and 11 grandchildren: Katherine Beck Whittemore and James M. Whittemore (Beck and Jaimie, Caitlin and Raleigh, Tim and Carol, and Sam); David Wilson Beck and Mette Michelsen Beck (Jami and Johnny); and Daniel Wight Beck (Brooke, Tyler, Matthew, Katie and Maddy); his brother-in-law, Harry Wilson (nieces and nephew Harry, Jenifer and Becky); and seven great-grandchildren.

Jim was a loving friend to Mary Renshaw, a friendship which began as youngsters in Woolwich and rekindled in these last years of his life. Mary has been a joy and a comfort.

A service will be held at Grace Episcopal Church on Washington Street in Bath Saturday, April 2 at 11 a.m., followed immediately by a reception at the Kennebec Tavern on the waterfront. Arrangements are by David Desmond & Sons.

In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation in Jim’s name to the Maine Wilderness Watershed Trust (which supports the Pierce Pond Watershed), P.O. Box 5660, Augusta, ME 04332, or mwwt.org.

James Beck had a strong, brave heart that embraced so many in so many ways. The family is very grateful for the wonderful professional and personal care he received.