It is with profound sorrow that we announce the passing of Dale Beckstead, affectionately known as "Papa", on July 27, 2024. Born January 31, 1944 in Ogden, Utah, Dale was a spirited and adventurous soul who had a deep love for his family and friends.
Dale was a generous man who spent his life serving others. He was a dedicated truck driver in the transportation industry and ran his own business until his retirement in 2022. As a two-time Past Worshipful Master of the George Washington Blue Lodge Fraternal Order of Masonry in Ogden, and a Past Grand Master for I.O.O.F. Dale exemplified the virtues of loyalty and brotherhood. He was a passionate lover of western history, and could often be found watching the Discovery Channel, learning all he could about the era. His grandkids and great-grandkids were extremely important in his life and they loved spending time with him. He had an open heart for all who needed it, and his home in Willard, Utah was a haven of warmth and generosity. A quote from Ralph Waldo Emerson seems fitting to describe Dale's life: "The purpose of life is not to be happy. It is to be useful, to be honorable, to be compassionate, to have it make some difference that you have lived and lived well."
Dale found joy in the simple pleasures of life, including hunting, traveling, horseback riding, and being with family and friends. He had a particular passion for animals, a testament to his compassionate nature. Dale is preceeded in death by his first wife Ginger Holland. Dale leaves behind his beloved wife, Donna Beckstead; his devoted children, Trina Gonzales, Tamara (Robert) Beckstead-Jones, Sean Beckstead, 12 grandkids, and 10 great-grandchildren. He is also preceded in death by his parents, Wesley Beckstead, Zina Runnels, 3 brothers, and a sister.
A memorial service for Dale will be held on Saturday, August 3, 2024, at 5:00pm MDT at Gillies Funeral Chapel, located at 634 East 200 South, Brigham City, Utah, 84302. We invite all who knew and loved Dale to join us in celebrating his life and honoring his memory.
We encourage friends and family to leave memories and upload photos to Dale's memorial page. These shared moments and images will serve as a lasting tribute to Dale's generous spirit, adventurous soul, and his unwavering loyalty and love for his family.
Please send condolences to www.gfc-utah.com