Beck v. State

A state director performing official duties experienced emotional strain that combined with chronic coronary artery disease to cause his death. The Workmen’s Compensation Court initially awarded death benefits to the widow, but on rehearing it dismissed her claim. The district court on appeal reversed the order of dismissal, and the State of Nebraska has appealed. We review law and facts related to causation.

Plaintiff is the widow of Leo J. Beck, who was Director of Veterans’ Affairs from 1963 to his death. As director, he served on a board of inquiry and review that exercised limited…