Fred J. “Ted” Beckett, 79, a retired Chicago police officer whose clerical skills were praised by superiors over a 36-year career, died of a heart attack Tuesday, Sept. 5, in his Willowbrook home. Mr. Beckett joined the department after his discharge from the Army, where he served as a tank commander during the Battle of the Bulge in World War II. After a brief stint behind the wheel of a squad car, Mr. Beckett’s typing skills were recognized and opened the way to clerical positions, said his daughter, Mary-Grace Caughlin. “It was fortunate for him and the family that he landed a desk job,” his daughter said. Born in Chicago and raised on the West Side, Mr. Beckett was fascinated by cars, a pursuit he followed through various auto shows, including Chicago’s annual February show at McCormick Place. “He was a fit and trim man, an active and vital man who didn’t sit around in a chair,” his daughter said. “He was a devout Catholic and a gentle yet funny man. He was the best there was.” Mr. Beckett also is survived by his wife, Mary-Alyce; and a grandson. Visitation will be from 3 to 9 p.m. Friday in Elliston Funeral Home, 1st and Grant Streets, Hinsdale. Mass will be said at 10 a.m. Saturday in Notre Dame Catholic Church, 64 Norfolk Ave., Clarendon Hills.
