Phoenix firefighter who died of occupational cancer to be laid to rest

PHOENIX — A Phoenix firefighter who died over the weekend will be laid to rest on Thursday, and part of a major freeway will be restricted for his procession.

Bryan Beck Jr. will be buried at Greenwood Cemetery near downtown Phoenix, following a funeral service in north Phoenix that is scheduled to begin at 10 a.m.

Beck died Sunday from work-related melanoma cancer with an aggressive mutation, it was revealed at his memorial service Thursday. He was 31.

After the memorial service at Christ’s Church of the Valley, southbound Interstate 17 will be restricted to allow a law enforcement motorcade to escort the procession to the cemetery.

During the procession, rolling closures will take place between Thunderbird and McDowell roads. Ramps along the route will also be closed and reopened in stages.

The closure is expected to start around 12:30 p.m. and last until 1:30 p.m., but will depend on the procession’s schedule.

Drivers are encouraged to consider alternative routes and allow extra travel time during the restriction.

Flags at state buildings will also be at half-staff from sunrise to sunset on Thursday in honor of Beck, Gov. Doug Ducey’s office said.

“Arizona is saddened by the loss of Firefighter Brian Beck Jr. and our prayers are with his family, friends and colleagues during this difficult time,” Ducey said in a statement.

“Brian was a dedicated member of the Phoenix Fire Department and lived a life of honor while serving and protecting Arizonans.”

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