Steven Dean Beckman of Burlington, born on Jan. 2, 1956, said, “I love you” for the last time on Thursday, May 30. He passed shortly after midnight on Friday, May 31, 2024, surrounded by loved ones in his home after a two-year-long battle with cancer.
Steve retired from Case CNH, Burlington in 2016 after 42 years of service as a “tractor maker,” as he referred to himself.
His inspiring love of life created many great memories for his family and friends. He found a considerable amount of happiness when he was able to fly his W flag, for he was a die-hard Cubs fan. He enjoyed cheering on Da Bears, singing and playing the guitar, fishing, camping, playing pool, bowling, cracking a funny joke, being a little onery, saying movie quotes, saving Zelda, watching a thunderstorm roll in, feeding his hummingbirds and an ice, cold beer. But his greatest joys in life came from his family, children, grandchildren and especially his best friend and wife of 21 years.
Terri Felkins said yes to the ring and on May 24, 2003 they committed their lives to one another. They built a wonderful life together with their blended family. Steve has two girls: Dacia (Eric) Gaul and Josie (Robert) Retterer. Terri has three children: Chrissy (Chris) Upton, Gary (Hiromi) Felkins, and Cory (Amber) Felkins. Together, they have 16 grandchildren.
There were many other special people in his life including his siblings: Bill (Carol) Beckman, Barb Wignall, Bonnie Bowser, Shelly (Jim) Cox and Sherry (Steve) Vanderlinden as well as many special nieces and nephews.
He was preceded in death by his parents Kenneth and Evelyn Beckman and brothers-in-law Mike Bowser and Russ Wignall.
Secure in his faith, Steve (aka Steve-O, Scuba Steve, Tevie, Husband, Dad, Step-Dad, Papa, Grandpa, Uncle, Brother, and Friend) is surely up in heaven entertaining the other angels with singing and guitar playing around a fire – only to pause once in a while to tell a joke and cheer on the Cubs.
He will always be remembered for his incredible courage, strength, sense of humor and infectious laughter.
In lieu of flowers, a memorial has been established for Dream Catchers.