BEEKMAN, Willis J.

Willis J. Beekman, 80, of Grand Island died Saturday, July 16, 2005, at St. Francis Medical Center. Graveside services will be at 10:00 A.M. Wednesday at Westlawn Memorial Park Cemetery. The Rev. Karen Kennerly will officiate. Visitation will be on Tuesday from 4:00 until 8:00 P.M. with the family present to greet friends from 4:00 until 6:00 P.M. at Livingston-Sondermann Funeral Home Mr. Beekman was born on November 11, 1924 in Grand Island to Jacob J. & Mary (Harshfield) Beekman. Survivors include his wife, Betty of Grand Island; two sons and daughters-in-law, Jerry & Shirley Beekman of Neligh, and Mike & Nancy of Hastings; one sister, Alice James of Wolbach. Additional survivors include four grandsons and their wives, Matthew & Heather Beekman of Elkhorn, Brent Beekman of Chadron, Christopher & Julie Beekman of Lincoln, and Brandon & Ali Beekman of Lincoln; three great-grandsons; and nieces and nephews. Mr. Beekman received his education in Grand Island. He served in the U.S. Navy from December 12, 1942 until February 26, 1946. He married Betty Lacy on August 21, 1948 in Grand Island. The couple lived in Grand Island until 1958, and then moved to Broken Bow. In 1972 they moved to Hastings, and in 1979 they returned to make their home in Grand Island. Mr. Beekman worked for Grand Island Bottling for over 31 years, and retired in 1989. He enjoyed bowling, sports, and his grandchildren. Mr. Beekman was preceded in death by an infant grandson; six brothers, Vernon, Marvin, Arnie, Dale, Merle, and Robert; and two sisters, Ruby and Verna.