Robert Wesley Beckman, 89, of Mediapolis, died Tuesday, February 3, 2026, at the University of Iowa Hospitals & Clinics in Iowa City.
Born December 29, 1936, in Prairie Grove, Iowa, he was the son of Carl and Ella (Bohlen) Beckman. On September 28, 1958, he married Marlene Orr.
Robert was a farmer his entire life; farming primarily dairy, livestock, and grain. He enjoyed being involved with 4H, serving on the Board of Directors of the Des Moines County Cattlemen Association, and serving as President of the board for several years. Robert was inducted into the Iowa 4H hall of Fame and received the Cattlemen of the Year award. He was also heavily involved in the Des Moines County Fair and looked forward to it every year.
Robert never met a stranger and was open to telling anyone he met a good story. He was very outgoing and always happy to help others when they were in need. He held a deep faith and looked forward to attending Peace Lutheran Church. Robert loved his family deeply. Marlene, his wife of 67 years, was his best friend and soul mate. They were both so proud of the family that they raised and the accomplishments of their children, grandchildren and great-grandchildren. Robert will be truly missed.
Survivors include wife, Marlene Beckman of Mediapolis, IA; children Randall (Sherlyn) Beckman of Sperry, Charlene (Jeff) Waterhouse of Pleasant Grove, Susan Campbell of Mediapolis, Gloria (Lance) Christian of Lincoln, NE; daughter-in-law, Cheryl Beckman of West Burlington; grandchildren, Stephanie (Sam) Hightower, Russ (Paige) Beckman, Nick Beckman, Derek (Elisabeth) Beckman, Marlena (Taylor Donahoo) Borzekofski, Blake Beckman, Kayla (Jacob Althar) Beckman, Kourtney Waterhouse, Travis Campbell, Michaella Beckman, Dylan (Alexis) Christian, and Kameron Waterhouse; great-grandchildren, Collins Beckman, Ryder Beckman, Gabriella Beckman, Michael Beckman, Bentley Borzekofski, Lucas Beckman, Matthew Beckman, Theodore Christian, and Paislyn Althar; siblings, Donald Beckman, Rodney (Naomi) Beckman, Joyce Beckman, and Marjean (Tom) Gerdes; sister-in-law, Rose Alice Beckman; brother-in-law, James McGlaughlin; and sister-in-law, Donna Beckman.
He was preceded in death by his son, Duane Beckman; grandson, Daniel Campbell; great-grandson, Matthew Hightower; two brothers, Rev. Richard Beckman and Jimmie Beckman; one sister, Verletta McGlaughlin; and sister-in-law, Barb Beckman.
Visitation will be from 12 to 6 p.m. with the family to receive friends from 4 to 6 p.m. Friday, February 6, 2026, at Prugh Funeral Service, 3940 Division Street.
The funeral service for Mr. Beckman will be 10 a.m. Saturday, February 7, 2026, at Peace Lutheran Church with Pastor James Zuehls officiating. Burial will be in Kossuth Cemetery.
In lieu of flowers, a memorial has been established for his family.