Premier Offers Condolences as Political Scientist Laid to Rest

Premier Darrell Dexter offered his condolences on the passing of political scientist James Murray Beck, who was laid to rest at a funeral in Lunenburg today, July 5.

Mr. Beck, 96, was a native of Lunenburg, although his teaching career took him across Nova Scotia. He passed away June 30 in Drummond Hall in Halifax.

"My deepest sympathies go out to the family, friends and former colleagues of Dr. Beck," said Premier Dexter. "This was a man who dedicated his life to teaching and educating the public on political issues. His extensive publications and insightful observations shone a spotlight on more than a century of Nova Scotia politics. He made an enduring contribution to people's understanding of this province."

Before his years teaching at Acadia and Dalhousie universities, as well as the Royal Military College of Canada and a number of public schools, Mr. Beck served as a radar mechanic and an officer in Britain during the Second World War.

He was elected a fellow of the Royal Society of Canada in 1976, he became a member of the Order of Canada in 1993 and a fellow of the Royal Nova Scotia Historical Society in 2004. He was also awarded the Confederation of Canada Medal in 1992 and the Queen's Golden Jubilee Medal in 2002.