Richard Ray Beedon

In all ways, Richard Beedon was a devoted and loving family man who would do anything for those he held dear. Although hard working, he found time to enjoy the life he shared with those around him, and made endless memories to last a lifetime. Deeply loved and missed, he will be fondly remembered in the hearts of many. Richard's story began in the city of Muskegon, Michigan just as summer had reached it's peak along the shores of Lake Michigan. Prohibition was law, and families gathered around the radio to enjoy the debut of Amos and Andy while the first public demonstration of the television was the subject of conversations everywhere. The Great Depression cast a shadow among all, and these times of hardship found many barely getting by. For Francis and Georgine (Ray) Beedon, the days were filled with joy when on August 7, 1930 they celebrated the birth of their son, Richard Ray Beedon. Growing up in the close knit community of Lakeside offered Richard a multitude of adventures as a child. His father was an educator, and also served as a State Representative for several terms while his mother, a homemaker, remained at home with Richard and his siblings. They made their home in the Lakeside neighborhood right next door to the fire station where Richard liked hanging out and talking to the firemen. Along with his parents, Richard and his two older brothers, Francis and Charles, and his younger sister, Joyce attended Central United Methodist Church. Richard enjoyed bike riding around the neighborhood with his buddy, Fred Zallman who became his lifelong friend. During his youth, he spent fun times fishing on the Muskegon Channel, and always looked forward to family vacations in Manistee where his mother was raised. Richard attended Bunker Junior High and went on to Muskegon High School where he graduated with the Class of 1950. As a young man, Richard's life was forever changed when he met Nancy Humphreys on a blind date. Her co-workers introduced them at a picnic, and from then on he only had eyes for his beloved, Nancy. They began dating, and soon fell deeply in love. Wedding bells began a lifelong commitment of love and devotion when they became husband and wife on October 20, 1951, and Richard could not have been happier. They settled into a house on Heights-Ravenna Road where they would live for over 60 years. Their lives together were exceptionally blessed when their son, Robert came along in 1952, and daughter, Marianne completed their family in 1957. Family was Richard's greatest blessing. He was an active parent in the lives of his children, and would not have wanted it any other way. He was involved in Boy Scouts, baseball and softball, and helped begin Beach roller skating along with other parents. As a family they liked vacationing in Pentwater, and Sunday afternoon drives almost always included ice cream. Pets were always a part of the Beedon household, such as Bridget, Buffy, Mitzi, and Midget, just to name a few. Their backyard pool was a place where many gathered, and Richard especially loved it because he thoroughly enjoyed swimming. In later years, they traveled around the country camping, and he continued his boyhood love for fishing. Richard became a tool and die maker and eventually began working at American Coil Spring where he remained for 38 years prior to retiring. For 18 years, Richard and Nancy were regular square dancers before moving on to ballroom dancing. After retiring, they did more traveling, and Nancy would even persuade Richard to take her to the casinos now and then. They both loved becoming grandparents, and especially enjoyed spending time with their grandchildren during the holidays. As the years took their toll, Nancy developed health issues. Richard took great care of her, and lovingly tended to her needs. Unfortunately, Richard took a fall down the stairs and suffered from several broken ribs. Hopeful he was on the road to recovery, things sadly took a turn for the worse. At the age of 82, Richard died on Wednesday, July 31, 2013. With his family by side, Richard Beedon was the happiest. He was a hard worker and a good provider for his family, but more importantly, he loved them beyond compare. Gone but never to be forgotten, Richard will be dearly remembered as a devoted husband, dedicated family man, and a good friend to all. SURVIVORS: Richard is survived by his wife of 61 years, Nancy; son, Robert Beedon of Muskegon; daughter, Mary Ann (Terry) Hooper of NC; four grandchildren; nine great-grandchildren; one great-great grandchild; and his brother, Charles Beedon of Wyoming, MI. He was preceded in death by brother, Francis and sister, Joyce Higgins. SERVICE: Monday, August 5, 2013, 11:00 AM at the Clock Chapel - Fruitport with Rev. Ken Shady officiating. Interment at Fruitport Cemetery. VISITATION: Sunday, 6-8 PM and one hour prior to the service at Clock Funeral Home - Fruitport. Please visit www.clockfuneralhome.com to share a memory of Richard and to sign his online guest book.