SR0297 103RD GENERAL ASSEMBLY

SR0297 LRB103 32453 LAW 61942 r

SENATE RESOLUTION

WHEREAS, The members of the Illinois Senate are saddened to learn of the death of Gale D. Beekman of Ipava, who passed away on March 12, 2023; and

WHEREAS, Gale Beekman was born to Willis F. and Marjorie L. (Thompson) Beekman in Ipava on December 23, 1946; he served as a specialist 4 in the U.S. Army and was stationed stateside during the Vietnam War; he married Annie Stambaugh in Canton on August 7, 2004; and

WHEREAS, Gale Beekman began his professional career working at Fiat-Allis in Bluff City before working as a salesman for Moorman Feed; he then began his insurance career, becoming an agent for Country Companies; he later became owner and operator of the Insurance Center in Havana for over 30 years; he also assisted in the auctioneer business with his son, Chad; and

WHEREAS, Gale Beekman was a member of the Masonic Lodge in Havana and Astoria American Legion Post #25, where he was a past commander; he was a member of Summum Christian Church, where he also served on the church board; and

WHEREAS, Gale Beekman enjoyed gardening, golfing, fishing, camping, hunting mushrooms, and caring for his farm; he also enjoyed traveling, both in the United States and abroad; he was an avid horseman, training and trail riding his Tennessee Walkers; and

WHEREAS, Gale Beekman is survived by his wife; his children, Stacey (Richard) Meehan, Brad (Bambi) Beekman, Chad (Heather) Beekman, Kelly (Tom) Carlock, and Rachel (Clint) Laethem; his grandchildren, Zeke (Lauren Krohe) Meehan, Zeb Meehan, Macey (Lucas) Utter, Gage (Alex Silvola) Beekman, Bailey Cale, Broc Beekman, Brynlee Beekman, Cade Beekman, Clay Beekman, Cole Beekman, Lexi (Michael Curry) Carlock, Gabe Carlock, Belle Carlock, Ella Laethem, and Evelyn Laethem; his great-grandsons, Nash and Crew Utter; and his siblings, Karen (Scott) Tippey and Donald (and Debra) Beekman; therefore, be it

RESOLVED, BY THE SENATE OF THE ONE HUNDRED THIRD GENERAL ASSEMBLY OF THE STATE OF ILLINOIS, that we mourn the passing of Gale D. Beekman and extend our sincere condolences to his family, friends, and all who knew and loved him; and be it further

RESOLVED, That a suitable copy of this resolution be presented to the family of Gale Beekman as an expression of our deepest sympathy.