Memorial

Eugene "Gene" Lyle Van Beek, a beloved husband, father, grandfather, and friend, passed away on August 18, 2025. He was born on May 1, 1933, in Long Lake, Wisconsin, to Garrit and Sophie (Stoik) Van Beek. Gene lived a life rich in love, service, and dedication.

Gene proudly served his country in the United States Army from April 6, 1954, to November 11, 1956, attaining the rank of Private 1st Class during the Korean War. His military service earned him the Army Defense Service Medal, and he was recognized for his skills as an ammunition renovation specialist and sharpshooter. Following his service, Gene embarked on a fulfilling career that reflected his strong work ethic and passion for the outdoors. He worked in the foresty department for the City of Cedar Rapids and was a welder at Link Belt. He also held the position of supervisor and roll label press operator at Lueck Label.

Gene's true calling and passion was the tree service, Founding the Van Beek Tree Service, a business he owned and operated for an impressive 50 years. An accomplished arborist, Gene began trimming trees in 1962 alongside Norman McMurrin, establishing a reputation for excellence in his field that his family continues to honor today.

In 2025, Gene and Gloria celebrated 65 years of marriage. On March 20th, 1960, Gene married Gloria Ann Apfel in Cedar Rapids, Iowa, and together raised a beautiful family. Gene is survived by his beloved wife Gloria, daughters Tammy (Rick) Rizzio, Wendy Fitzgerald, and Gwen (Chris) Blass; his sisters Corinne Krusensterna and Carolyn Topdahl; brothers Thomas and Robert Van Beek; as well as 11 grandchildren, and 14 great-grandchildren,

Gene was preceded in death by his parents, Garrit and Sophie; his son, Douglas Van Beek; granddaughter, Gina Rizzio; and his sisters, Dorothy Schultz, Virginia Hansen, Loretta Rand, and Ruth Foss; and brother, Kenneth Van Beek.

Gene was a member of the Lutheran Church, the Moose Lodge, and the American Legion. He was an instructor providing welding and snowmobile safety certifications. Embodying his nature for teaching others. Gene loved the outdoors, finding joy in hunting, fishing, snowmobiling, and four-wheeling. His family fondly remembers his love for sitting around a good bonfire, sharing stories, and creating treasured memories together.

Gene instilled the values of hard work and family unity in all his children and grandchildren, teaching them to hunt and fish, encouraging them to love and value nature. Love for his family was essential in his life and having family around made his heart full of joy. He enjoyed listening and dancing to live music, The Two Step, Waltz and Polka were his favorite dances.

Gene's spirit will continue to shine brightly in the hearts of those he loved. His legacy of love and dedication to family will forever inspire us all.

To honor Gene's remarkable life, a visitation will be held on Sunday August 24th, 2025, from 4-7pm at the Cedar Memorial Park Funeral Home. A Funeral service will be on Monday August 25th, 2025, at 11:00 AM at the Cedar Memorial Chapel of Memories. His family invites all who knew and loved Gene to join them in celebrating a life well-lived.