Rodney Beckman Obituary

Beckman
Rodney B. Beckman
November 25, 1934
June 19, 2022

Heaven just got a little more interesting, and life down here will never be the same.

Colonel Rodney B. Beckman, U.S. Air Force, Retired, long-time resident of Monument, Colorado, in the prime of his life at the age of 87, passed away unexpectedly on Father's Day, June 19, 2022.

Born the youngest of 11 children to Ben and Clara Beckman in Wendell, Minnesota on November 25, 1934, Rod spent his childhood working on the family farm. After graduating as valedictorian of his high school class, he joined the U.S. Air Force and became a career military officer, logging over 4,400 hours in eight different fighter aircraft over the course of 30 years of distinguished service as a pilot, mentor, and commander. Soon after joining the Air Force, he met and married his wife, Marilyn, and together they took their family across the U.S. and around the world, including two tours in Japan and one in Iran. During the Vietnam War, Rod flew 176 combat missions and was awarded two Distinguished Flying Crosses and 12 Air Medals. While serving, he received a Bachelor of Science Degree in History and a Master of Science Degree in Mass Communications.

After retiring from the Air Force, Rod worked in management for Martin Marietta in Littleton, Colorado for ten years and during that time built a lovely home in Monument, Colorado, which over the years became the holiday and summer congregation point for a family that had spread out across the country.

As successful and rewarding as his professional life was, Rod's life in retirement and as the patriarch of the Beckman clan is where he really cemented his legacy. He was a beacon of integrity, discipline, kindness, respect, patriotism, self-reliance, faith, love, and generosity for the entire family.

Rod was a devoted husband and father and he loved being a grandfather and great grandfather. He personally cared for his wife, Marilyn, during her difficult final years, making sure that her last days were as comfortable as possible. He was always eager to be with his family, hosting large holiday dinners and making road trips to visit, right up until the very end.

He was larger than life and will be greatly missed by all who knew him.

Rod is survived by his daughter Kaille (John), sons Shawn (Patty) and Patrick (Leland, Betsy), daughter-in-law Carmen, eight grandchildren, one great granddaughter, his sister Mickey Schuster, and a host of nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his beloved wife, Marilyn, and his loving son, Michael.

A Funeral Mass will be at 10:00 AM, Thursday, July 21, 2022 at St. Peter Catholic Church, 55 Jefferson St., in Monument, followed by a reception in the Parish Ministry Center at 11:00 AM. Visitation and a Rosary will precede the funeral at 9:30 AM. Interment with full military honors will take place at 9:00 AM, Friday, July 22, 2022 at Fort Logan National Cemetery, 3698 South Sheridan Blvd., Denver. In lieu of flowers, remembrance contributions may be made to St. Peter Catholic Church, Monument, CO. Tribute Wall at www.EllisFamilyServices.com.