“Lincoln’s parks have given us a shared drive to give back to our communities.”
After distinguished careers in law and library science, David and Rita Beck were ready for a new chapter, one that would keep them active, curious, and connected. Commuting from Nebraska City, they found that opportunity through Lincoln’s Master Gardener program, where they discovered a shared passion for horticulture that quickly grew into something more.
Today, David and Rita volunteer as docents at the Sunken Gardens, helping care for one of Lincoln’s most beloved resources. From opening the beds each spring to closing them down in the fall, they are part of the full life cycle of the gardens. But their work goes beyond tending plants: it’s about being present.
They’ve come to cherish the everyday moments unfolding around them: families laughing on afternoon walks, quiet conversations on shaded benches, and the occasional marriage proposal framed by blooming flowers. Whether the moment is big or small, David and Rita take pride in helping create a space where memories can flourish.
Their love of gardening extends back home to the Wildwood Historic Center in Nebraska City, where they’ve helped revitalize its grounds with the same care and intention. They are dedicated to creating beautiful spaces that cultivate an organic connection between visitors and the natural environment.
For David and Rita, this shared passion has deepened their connection as a couple. Side by side, season after season, they continue to grow: cultivating not just gardens, but a life rooted in purpose, partnership, and community.
