Beckman, Gerald D. (Jerry) age 77, passed away on Nov. 9, 2021 from COVID-19 at his home in Montana. Jerry was born on July 17, 1944, in Wausau, Wis., to the late Russell and Lorraine (Stillman) Beckman.
Jerry grew up in Wausau and quickly developed an interest in working with his hands while at the family service station. After graduating from Newman High School, he enlisted as an Army National Guard Reserve, attended Wausau Technical Institute, moved to Milwaukee, and eventually Green Bay, working as a mechanic at GMC.
Jerry and his first wife, Anne, moved from Green Bay to Tomahawk shortly after the birth of their son, Ted. There, they spent roughly 20 years, where Jerry worked at Northwest Petroleum in Wausau before leaving to pursue his growing interest in home building. Jerry built traditional and log homes, including the lake homes where they lived. After moving from Tomahawk, Jerry spent fifteen years in Prescott, Ariz., where he built another home, challenging and testing his talents with Adobe design. The last seven years of his life were in Whitehall, Mont., with his loving wife, Carol.
Jerry was extremely hardworking and so very talented building with his hands. He continually challenged himself to build instead of buy. Jerry had a passion for nature and the outdoors. He strived to be self-sufficient by fishing, gardening, harvesting firewood, even installing solar panels and wind turbines at his home.
If you were fortunate enough to know Jerry well, he was as loyal and generous as anyone. Jerry was extremely strong-willed and had an often twisted sense of humor that will give us all lasting memories. He developed strong faith in his later years and believed in a higher power.
Jerry is survived by his wife, Carol; son Ted (Hilary) Beckman and beloved grandchildren Amelia and Oliver; and siblings, Corinne Layton, Keith (Jeanne) Beckman, and Sally (Jay) Long.
Jerry will be cremated and per his wish, his ashes will be spread throughout nature.
Dad, I am so thankful for all that you taught me. I love you and will miss you forever.