In small towns, some places become more than just a business—they become part of the fabric of the community. Beck’s Pub & Grill in West Bloomfield, WI, is where locals gather after a long day, where travelers along Highway 49 find a warm welcome, and where stories are shared over generations with a great meal and a perfectly crafted Old Fashioned. But the heart of Beck’s is not just in its food and drinks—it’s in the people who have made it their own.
A Childhood Connection Turned into a Lifelong Dream
For owner Rebecca "Becky" Hess, taking over Beck’s Pub wasn’t just about running a business—it was about continuing a legacy that had been a part of her life since childhood.
"When I was growing up in West Bloomfield, we used to stop in after dump runs or cutting wood with my parents," Becky reminisces. "Ma Hoot would give us treats and quarters for the games. He was always a good guy to us kids."
That sense of community and welcoming spirit stayed with Becky throughout her life. Later, as she pursued her education at UW-Stevens Point, she found herself working at Beck’s under Dee Dee and Bruce Goode, the former owners.
"They were incredible to work for. Without realizing it, they taught me lessons that five years of college never could," she says. "Their work ethic was second to none, and I admired Dee Dee's way with customers. That experience shaped how I wanted to run a business someday."
When the opportunity to own Goode's came, Becky knew it was her chance to carry on the traditions that had meant so much to her growing up.
Keeping Wisconsin Traditions Alive
One of the things that sets Beck’s apart is its commitment to classic Wisconsin flavors. Recently, Beck’s was voted 'Best Old Fashioned' by the Fremont Chamber of Commerce!
"A lot of the things we serve—our beer batter, buttermilk ranch, even our Old Fashioned recipe—are made the way they were originally meant to be in Wisconsin," Becky explains. "When I researched the history of Old Fashioneds, I wanted to make sure we honored the way they were first created and how they became a Wisconsin staple."
That dedication to keeping things traditional is reflected in every aspect of the menu, from the scratch-made soups to the beloved Friday fish fry, a Wisconsin tradition that brings people together week after week.
Weathering the Storm: A Community’s Support During COVID
Owning any small business always comes with challenges, but few obstacles were as unexpected and difficult as the COVID-19 pandemic. For Becky, it was an especially uncertain time—she had only been the owner of Beck’s for less than a year when shutdowns threatened to close businesses like hers across the state.
"COVID was rough for everyone, but especially for small businesses," Becky shares. "The media warned people to stay away from bars and restaurants, and at times, it felt like the state government was working against us. There were so many rules, threats, and restrictions—it was overwhelming."
But in those uncertain months, something remarkable happened—the community showed up in ways Becky will never forget.
"On many Friday nights, our takeout wait times were over an hour, yet people kept calling in orders. They were patient, they were generous, and they made sure we knew they were behind us," she recalls. "They understood what we were going through, and they stood by us. Their support meant everything."
That sense of community, of people looking out for each other, is what makes West Bloomfield special—and it’s what makes Beck’s Pub & Grill more than just a business.
Summer Volleyball League
One of the highlights of summer at Beck’s is its volleyball league! "We have a volleyball meeting in mid to late April to get teams signed up and to get an idea of how many we will have," Becky explains. "There’s a Beck’s Volleyball League Facebook page, and we always share updates on Beck’s Pub & Grill’s Facebook as well."
Organized by Bart Schuelke, the league welcomes teams of all skill levels, from casual players to more competitive groups. Team fees are expected to be $100 per team this year, and Bart works hard to make sure the schedule is organized and fun for everyone.
"Bart does his magic with the schedule and always tries to wrap up regular play before high school fall sports begin," Becky adds. "We love having young athletes and young adults under 21 participate too!"
Whether you're joining a team, cheering from the sidelines, or just stopping by for food and drinks, summer at Beck’s wouldn’t be the same without the energy and excitement of volleyball nights.
Hides for Heroes: Supporting Wisconsin’s Wounded Veterans
Beyond being a great place to grab a drink and meal, Beck’s is also deeply committed to giving back to the community. Since 2020, Beck’s has helped raise over $17,000 for Hides for Heroes, a non-profit organization supporting Wisconsin’s Wounded Warriors in Action.
"Through our gun and bow boards, anyone who purchased a spot has helped support Wisconsin Wounded Warriors," Becky explains. "Dave Hintz of Waupaca started this group in 2012, and it’s rapidly gaining support throughout the state!"
One of the most inspiring parts of the program? The dedication of local high school students.
"Dave is incredibly proud of the Wega high school kids who ‘bust their butts,’ as he says, collecting hides for this cause," Becky shares.
It’s just another example of how the Beck’s community comes together to make a difference, not just for each other, but for those who have served our country.
More Than a Bar—A Place to Call Home
Today, Beck’s continues to be a place where everyone feels welcome. Whether you’re grabbing a bite after a long day, meeting up with friends for a game, or stopping in off the snowmobile trail in the winter, Beck’s offers the kind of warmth and familiarity that makes it feel like home.
The menu is packed with homemade favorites, from crispy cheese curds to hearty burgers. The Friday Fish Fry is legendary, offering freshly battered walleye, perch, and bluegill that keep locals near and far coming back week after week. And, of course, there’s the Old Fashioned, crafted the way it was meant to be.
Looking to the Future of Beck's Pub & Grill
Through the highs and lows, Becky remains grateful for the people who have supported Beck’s—and she’s excited for what’s ahead.
"At the end of the day, it’s all about the people. This community has been here for Beck’s through everything, and I just want to keep making it a place where people feel welcome and appreciated," she says.
So, if you’re looking for great food, great drinks, summer volleyball, and a place that truly gives back, stop by Beck’s Pub & Grill—where the past, present, and future of West Bloomfield’s spirit lives on. Weyauwega Fremont News & Events thanks you for being a sponsor of not only us, but everything you do!
📍 Beck’s Pub & Grill
📍 N6630 State Road 49, West Bloomfield, WI
📍 (920) 867-2519
