Vic Beck, prominent weed control specialist, was born near Mawer and started his first career as a teacher. This was interrupted by the Second World War and he went overseas as a navigator in the Royal Canadian Air Force.
On his return he obtained his BA and BSA in 1950 and in 1951 his MSc in agriculture at the University of Saskatchewan . He joined the Saskatchewan Department of Agriculture staff in 1951, specializing in weed control. He was Weed Control Specialist until 1970 when he became Director of the Plant Industry Branch. He retired in 1981.
In the 1950s a broad new range of herbicides came into general use and there was a critical need to keep Saskatchewan farmers informed about proper handling and application. Vic was a much sought after and knowledgeable speaker on the subject, presenting information in a humorous, entertaining style. He was active in the battle against persistent perennial weeds such as leafy spurge.
Vic's efforts in weed extension were highly respected at the provincial, national and international levels. He was made an Honorary Member of the North Central Weed Control Conference of the United States in 1972.
While director of the Plant Industry Branch, Vic oversaw creation of the Saskatchewan Pest Control Products Act and regulations for the use, handling and distribution of pesticides. During his term he expanded the staff serving Saskatchewan farmers as new needs arose, bringing in specialists in special crops, forage and plant pathology.
Vic was a national director of the Canadian Seed Growers Association from 1972-80.
He died April 5, 1998 .