Donald G. Beckmann

April 27, 1942 – Nov. 2, 2021

Posted

Donald Gene Beckmann passed away Nov. 2, 2021, at the age of 79. He was born April 27, 1942, to Walter and Birdeen Beckmann in Seward.

Don grew up in Garland with his parents and four siblings, where he learned the value of hard  work and the importance of family. He was an exceptional athlete and a leading member of state championship-winning teams in both baseball and basketball. In 1981, he was inducted into the Nebraska Baseball Hall of Fame. He earned a degree in education from Nebraska Wesleyan University and became a teacher and coach. After teaching, he became a steel buyer for Walker Manufacturing where he excelled in business for many years.

He married Janet Beth McCormack on Oct. 14, 1978, and together they raised Paul and April, living in Texas, Michigan and Ohio. In 2004, Don retired from Tenneco Automotive and moved with Janet to Humble, Texas. He spent his later years as “Grampy” to Benjamin and Oliver, passing on his love of sports to them. He helped coach them and never missed a practice, a game, meet or any school event. With Grampy’s guidance and encouragement, both boys became state-level athletes, following in their grandfather’s footsteps. Don stayed active for many years working out at the gym, playing golf and competing in the Senior Olympics in basketball.

Don would best be described as humble, kind, thoughtful and funny. He was a devoted husband, caring brother and uncle, loving father and grandfather and a good friend. His legacy will be cherished by his family and his presence will be greatly missed.

He was preceded in death by his wife of 39 years, Janet Beckmann; his parents; older brother, Loren Beckmann; and twin brother, Douglas Beckmann.

Don is survived by daughter, April Money Maldonado; son-in-law, David Maldonado; son, Paul Money; sister, Wilma (Ray) Gard; brother, Dennis (Perk) Beckmann; sister-in-laws, Kathleen Beckmann and Paula McCormack; many loving nieces and nephews; grandchildren, Tara Ribbey, Zachary (Ashleigh) Maldonodo, Adrienne Maldonado, Benjamin Maldonado and Oliver Maldonado; and great-grandchildren, Ava Perez, Jade Ribbey and Novalee Maldonado.

Don was be laid to rest beside his beloved wife on Nov. 8 at Rosewood Funeral Home in Humble. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions are suggested to an organization  close to Don’s heart, the Houston Area Parkinson Society.