Peacefully, surrounded by the love of his family, Marvin Dale Beckman, went to be with his Lord on December 21, 2024. He leaves to mourn his wife and soulmate of 67 years, Darline Roberta (Bobby); his children, Terry (Debbie), and Wendy Rigby (John); and 6 grandchildren whom he adored; his sisters, Carol Kosman and Carmen Ewasiuk (Ernie). He was predeceased by his parents, Marvin and Alice Beckman; and his brother-in-law, Don Kosman.
Dale was born in Alix and grew up in Meeting Creek, Alberta. He left home at age 15 to finish high school, demonstrating an independent spirit that characterized him throughout his life. He finished his high school at Canadian Nazarene College, then in Red Deer, and continued on to complete a Bachelor of Theology degree. It was at CNC that Dale met Roberta Moore and they began their life partnership. Many of Dale and Bobby’s lifelong friends were fellow students at the college. Dale continued his university education at the University of Alberta (BSc) and the University of Western Ontario (MBA). After quickly rising to the position of National Advertising Manager at Hoechst Pharmaceuticals he shifted his career direction to academics and completed a PhD at Michigan State while teaching at the University of Windsor. His love of learning transformed into a love of teaching. He held the rank of Full Professor at the business schools of both the University of Manitoba and the University of Victoria. He was noted for his teaching, research, and the authorship of several leading business and marketing textbooks.
Outside of the university, Dale was a committed lay leader in various churches. He was a longstanding board member of Canadian Nazarene College (now part of Ambrose University) and served on and chaired church boards in both Winnipeg and Victoria.
Despite an intensely busy professional life Dale always made time for his family. In the midst of his PhD studies he and Bobby built a professional quality tent trailer which became the base for many happy summer camping adventures. In their Winnipeg years he built a beautiful cottage on Shoal Lake on the border between Manitoba and Ontario. The grandchildren all have warm memories of fishing and spending time with Grandpa. When they lived in Victoria family trips to Butchart Gardens to see the fireworks in the summer and the Christmas displays in the winter were obligatory.
Dale and Bobby were world travelers spending time in China and several eastern Asian countries. They spent sabbaticals in Wales and New Zealand but developed a special love for Australia, returning for many extended visits and developing a second network of very close friends and colleagues. Peter Chandler became an especially close friend and host. In their later years they moved to Whiterock, BC, and then, as their health started to fail, to St. Albert, AB, to be near family.
Dale lived his life well and with purpose. He is mourned and missed. Cremation has taken place. A memorial service will be held at a later date.
Brian and Faye Currie says
We have fond memories of Dale and Bobby and the family who were valued members of our Central Baptist Church family in Victoria. Dale was an outstanding board chair for several years. His godly wisdom and financial acumen had a profond impact on church health. Faye and I enjoyed our many social times with Dale and Bobby, and are saddened to hear the news, but delighted to know he is in glory. Our love and prayers to Bobby, Terry and Debbie and rest of the family.