AKRON—Michael R. Beck III, president of Polymer Valley Chemicals Inc., died Dec. 24 at University Hospitals' Seidman Cancer Center in Cleveland after battling an extended illness. He was 47.
Beck III joined Akron-based Polymer Valley in 1997, and was named president in 2014, taking over for his father, Michael R. Beck Jr., who founded the company in 1986 and retained the CEO post. Beck III started with the company full time after graduating from Miami University in Ohio, but actually began working part time while still a student
His father was happy to have his son follow him into the family business, which specializes in reinforcing fillers.
"Michael's been with me since the day he got out of college," Beck Jr. said about his son when he was promoted to president. "He has a really good grasp of what we do and how we do it. He's seen everything evolve."
Beck III was a member of the ACS Rubber Division and the Ohio Rubber Group. He also was a trustee of the Beck Family Foundation.
"Michael was loved by all who knew him and will be remembered for his quiet leadership, generosity and kindness," the family said in his obituary. "Michael was a loving husband, a doting father who loved nothing more than spending time with his two boys, and proud uncle."
He is survived by his wife, Kim; sons Michael R. Beck IV and Brayden; his father, Michael R. Beck Jr. and stepmother Brenda Beck; sister Kristen C. (Scott) Clark; brother Sean; and many other family members.
Memorials can be made in his name to the Beck Family Foundation, 1872 Akron-Peninsula Rd., Akron, OH 44313.; or the St. Sebastian Foundation 476 Mull Ave., Akron, OH 44320.
