Norman Beck
A former employee of the Oxford Mail and The Oxford Times for more than half a century, Norman Beck has died, aged 87.
Mr Beck died after a long illness at his home in Green Road, Kidlington, where he lived with his wife, Jill.
Mr Beck joined The Oxford Times in May 1928, when it was based in Victoria Court, as a 14-year-old apprentice printer. He transferred to Newspaper House in New Inn Hall Street, Oxford, with the rest of his colleagues the following year.
His seven-year indentures began with spells as a reader, and various printing tasks before being taught how to use a type-setting machine.
Apart from wartime service with the Royal Air Force, he spent most of his working life as a keyboard printer.
He is survived by his wife, their married daughters, Susan and Sally, and grandchildren Emma, Liam and Cheryl. A funeral service was held yesterday at St Mary's Church, Kidlington.
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