Mary Beckman

Mary Beckman
November 3, 1927
October 7, 2017

Mary Beckman, 89, of Ramona, California died Saturday, October 7, 2017. She was born on November 3, 1927 in Nottingham, England, the daughter of Thomas and Pansy Tinsley, both of whom have preceded her in death. She was also preceded in death by her husband of 50 years, Robert “Bob” Beckman and her infant son, Wayne.

She is survived by her son Glenn Beckman (Alpine, CA); by her daughter and son-in-law Julia and David Farren (Ramona, CA); three grandchildren; and two great-grandchildren.

Mary grew up in Nottingham, England on her grandfather's farm where she developed her love of animals and especially horses. She lived through the Second World War and the German blitzes launched against England. She had many tales to tell about her experiences during that time. Although she saw much pain and suffering, she always kept a positive attitude about life. 

When she was thirty she emigrated to the United States where she met Bob on the square dance floor. They married a few weeks later and she eventually became a naturalized citizen, of which she was very proud. She loved this country and always kept her passion for politics.

As an Instructional Aide for the Lemon Grove School District, she received her Associate's Degree and worked for many years in the lower elementary grades. She was excellent with children who nicknamed her, “Mrs. Lipstick”, because of her colorful make-up.

As a retired couple, Mary and Bob enjoyed traveling all over the United States and “across the pond” to Europe. They were popular at the pubs in Leicester, England, and were made honorary members there. But her greatest love was showing horses as an equestrian. She was unbeatable in the show ring and qualified her horse for the Morgan Nationals in Oklahoma City.

Lately, having resided in Ramona in a cottage on her daughter and son-in-law's property, she enjoyed the company of her little dog, “Ollie”, attended Grace Community Church regularly and utilized her exceptional gardening abilities to surround herself with beautiful fruit trees and flowers. Thursdays were always set aside for shopping days and lunch out with her daughter and best friend, Ann Hansell.

Deeply mourned by her family, friends and loved ones, she was proud to have lived to see her great-grandchildren, David and Alysia and spent as much time with them as possible.

A memorial service, with a luncheon following, will be held at 11:00 am. on Saturday, October 28th at Grace Community Church, 1234 Barger Place, Ramona, CA with Pastor Phil de Martimprey officiating the service. All are welcome.

Bonham Bros. & Stewart Mortuary and Cremation Service is assisting the family.
 

 

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