1955–2023
Born in Quito, Ecuador, to Czech parents, Richard Michael Beck—known to loved ones as Michael—overcame early challenges with quiet determination. Despite living with mild cerebral palsy, he excelled academically, had a photographic memory, and later earned a Commerce and Accounting degree from UNSW.
Michael migrated to Sydney at age 15, where he attended Moriah College and built lifelong friendships. He worked as an accountant and thrived in investing—his true passion. He also founded a Toastmasters chapter and proudly carried the Olympic Torch in the 2000 Sydney Games.
He married his beloved Susan in 2002 and lived a peaceful life in Canberra until her passing in 2014. In later years, Michael returned to Sydney to be near family.
Michael will be remembered for his brilliant mind, his resilient spirit, and his generous heart.
With no children of his own, he chose to leave his estate to causes he cared deeply about. His bequest to Magen David Adom has funded a Basic Life Support Ambulance, now part of MDA’s lifesaving fleet—ensuring that his legacy lives on every time it races to save a life in Israel.
