John F. Beekman

John Fred Beekman, beloved husband, father, grandfather, and friend, passed away on May 12, 2024, at the age of 87. Born on August 29, 1936, in San Francisco, California, to John and Anne (Fadin) Beekman, John's life was a tapestry woven with love, service, and devotion.

After graduating from high school, John answered the call to serve his country and proudly joined the army, dedicating four years of his life to the nation he held dear. Following his military service, he embarked on a remarkable career spanning over 48 years at Greyhound Lines, Inc., where his dedication and hard work earned him the respect and admiration of colleagues and friends alike.

John's journey with Greyhound led him to Texas, where he built a beautiful life with his wife, Barbara Joan (Lynch). His daughter, Laura and her family moved to Texas soon after John and Barbara. A few years later, his daughter Rebecca moved to Texas with her four children. He cherished every moment spent with his family, finding joy in the simple pleasures of life, like feeding squirrels, being in the garage tinkering with something and always lending a helping hand to fix things around the house and spending time with his grandchildren.

A devoted father, John's daughter, Laura, held a special place in his heart. Paycheck pick-up Saturdays became a cherished tradition, with Laura eagerly standing by his side as they drove to collect his hard-earned wages. John's culinary prowess knew no bounds, and he reigned as the king of hamburger helper and fried spam, delighting his family with his delicious creations, only when his wife was out of town.

As a grandfather, John's love knew no bounds. He was a constant source of joy and laughter, never hesitating to indulge his grandchildren's whims and desires. From swimming adventures to playful squirrel encounters, he made every moment unforgettable.

John's generosity extended beyond his family, as he offered a helping hand to his son-in-law, even providing him with employment at Greyhound, which became a cornerstone of his adult life.

Despite facing challenges such as short-term memory loss in his later years, John's military service remained a proud and vivid part of his identity. His stories captivated all who listened, a testament to his enduring spirit and unwavering commitment to his country.

John Fred Beekman will be deeply missed and fondly remembered by all who had the privilege of knowing him. His legacy of love, kindness, and resilience will continue to inspire generations to come. May he rest in peace, knowing that his memory will live on in the hearts of those he touched.

He is proceeded in death by his loving wife, Barbara Joan Beekman; children: Rebecca Colleen Carter, John Patrick Beekman, and one sister Jeanette M Breslin and brother in-law, Robert Lynch.

He is survived by his daughter, Laura Lee and husband Steven Patterson; sister, Joanne C. Michelucci, sister in-law, Patricia Poulo; grandchildren, Ashlee, and husband, Garett Thomas, Christopher and wife, Taylor Patterson, Jason and wife Desiree Carter, Jared and wife, Crystal Carter, Jennifer and husband, Robert Rodriguez, Joshua and wife Lindsey Carter; great grandchildren: Wesley Patterson, Juliet Shannon, Liam Thomas, Austin Bates, Savannah Sierra, Nathaniel Sierra, Landon Carter, and Sophia Carter.

The family will gather on Thursday, May 16, 2024, at the DFW National Cemetery for a 15 minute committal at 2:30pm.

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