Leif Christian Beck

**Leif Christian Beck (1934 - 2024)**

Leif Christian Beck, a man of extraordinary accomplishments, profound kindness, and unwavering dedication, passed away peacefully on March 20, 2024 at his home in Newtown Square, Pennsylvania, surrounded by his beloved wife of 59 years and his family.  He was 89 years old.

Born in Cleveland, Ohio, in 1934 to Christian and Borghild Beck, Leif's early years were marked by a diverse upbringing, spending time both in Norway and Bethesda, Maryland, where he was raised.  He pursued his education at Duke University, graduating in 1956, and later earned a degree from Duke University Law School in 1959.  Leif maintained a lifelong passion for his alma mater, particularly its championship basketball program, which he faithfully supported as a season ticket holder for decades.

Leif had several successful careers, but his greatest joys in life were his family and his myriad of non-profit organization involvements.  He was the proud father of Lars Beck (married to Kathryn née Kane) of Merion Station, PA, Eric Beck (married to Kelly née Bloh) of Newtown Square, PA, and Anders Beck of Nashville, TN.  His grandchildren, Colin, Bjorn and Christian, brought him immeasurable happiness and pride.

A man of many passions, Leif found solace and adventure in the mountains of Colorado, where he climbed 18 of their 14,000+ foot peaks, and cherished baking in the sun on the beaches of Florida.  His love for tennis led him to compete in the US National Championship (currently the US Open), where he met his beloved wife.  He was an ardent participant of Outward Bound adventures and held a deep appreciation for his Norwegian heritage.

Professionally, Leif distinguished himself as an attorney.  He was a partner at Pepper, Hamilton & Scheetz in Philadelphia.  He founded The Health Care Group, a consulting and legal firm for medical practices, and subsequently launched Advisory Publications, a series of newsletters focusing on management and leadership topics for medical practices.

Leif's philanthropic endeavors in the areas of healthcare, education and justice for underserved communities were as numerous as they were impactful.  He played a pivotal role in the creation of the Esperanza Health Center, which provides healthcare in inner-city Philadelphia, and co-founded the National Junior Tennis League of Philadelphia with his wife.  Leif established the Philadelphia Invitational Indoor Tennis Championships (US Pro Indoor), a professional tennis tournament which raised funds for city recreation centers, and he also served on the boards of several organizations dedicated to education and youth empowerment.  Recently, he had been a strong advocate for the Boys and Girls Club of Chester and Chester Children's Chorus.

Known for his independent spirit, Leif was wonderfully stubborn, extremely disciplined, and loyal beyond measure.  He possessed a contrarian nature, often playing devil's advocate, yet he was deeply loving and committed to his family and community.

Relatives and friends are invited to celebrate Leif's life at his Funeral Service on Thursday, March 28, 2024, at 11:00am at Bryn Mawr Presbyterian Church’s Pew Memorial Chapel, followed by a reception.  In lieu of flowers, contributions in Leif’s memory would be appreciated to Gesu School (www.gesuschool.org/support).

Leif Christian Beck leaves behind a legacy of love, service, and boundless generosity.  He will be deeply missed by all who had the privilege of knowing him, but his spirit will continue to inspire and uplift for generations to come.