Daniel Anthony Beckmann

age 68 of Grand Rapids, beloved husband, father, grandfather, brother, uncle, and friend lost his battle with cancer in the comfort of his own home with his family present on Saturday, October 25, 2014. “Big Dan” was a faithful and devoted husband to Maggie, his wife of 36 years. He was the loving father of five children Marianne (Paul) Barkholz, Thomas (Amy) Beckmann, Daniel (Lyndsey) Beckmann, Brooke (David) Karl, and Bryan Beckmann. Dan has five grandchildren, Elizabeth, Dylan, Nicole, Melissa, and Alyssa; and nieces and nephews Melanie, Colleen, Ben, Mark, Matt, Jeff, and Matt. Dan’s parents, Hubert and Mary, preceded him in death. Dan has three siblings Diane Beckmann, David (Charlene) Beckmann, and Denise (Randy) Hassen, all of Muskegon. Dan proudly served in Charlie Battery, 1st Battalion, 13th Marines in Vietnam in 1966-67. He retired as CFO of Ionia County Community Mental Health Center in May of this year, and was looking forward to a relaxing retirement with his wife and family. Dan was a sports enthusiast watching every sport. He coached hockey and baseball for many years in Marquette, MI. He was an avid University of Michigan fan, flying their flag proudly in spite of their win-loss record. He shared this passion for 40 years with his closest friends David and Diane Horling. Dan’s most endearing qualities were his humility and strength. He was quiet, but caring and supportive, and never wanted to be the center of attention. He had a subtle sense of humor that made us all laugh. He truly will be missed. Funeral service will be held Wednesday 11:00 a.m. at O’Brien-Eggebeen-Gerst Funeral Home, 3980 Cascade Rd. S.E., Grand Rapids. Deacon Larry Hoogeboom officiating. Visitation Tuesday 5-8:00 p.m. Memorial contributions may be made to American Cancer Society, 129 Jefferson Ave. S.E., Grand Rapids, MI 49503 or Van Andel Institute for Research, 333 Bostwick Ave., N.E., Grand Rapids, MI 49503.