Barry David Beardslee

1944 - 2014

Barry David Beardslee, 69, of Evergreen passed away on April 1, 2014.
Barry was born in St. Paul, Minn., on April 12, 1944. He attended Southwest High School in Minneapolis, graduating in 1962. He then attended the University of Minnesota, graduating in 1966. Barry went on to serve his country in the Air Force in 1968, retiring from the National Guard in 1992 with the rank of lieutenant colonel.
Barry worked at Air Wisconsin Airlines as a pilot for 31 years, beginning his career on Feb. 26, 1973, in Appleton, Wis., moving to Lafayette, Ind., Fort Wayne, Ind., and finally retiring in 2004 while living in Evergreen.
Barry was married to Mary on April 21, 2000; they were married for almost 14 years.
Barry is survived by his spouse, Mary; stepmother Margeret Beardslee; sisters Nancy, Pam, Lynn and Debi; as well as other family and many friends.
Barry is preceded in death by his father, David Beardslee, and his mother, Nance "Shorty" "Del" Beardslee.
Barry was a guy who brought smiles to the faces of everyone he met. His infectious laugh, practical jokes and sparkling eyes are legend. Barry lived from the heart, bringing his passion for loving life to everything he did. His Christmas boxes were received with much joy and laughter and trepid anticipation.
One of Barry's favorite things was to share his love of a full moon. He loved being an aviator, soaring the skies, protecting his country, and taking people to and from friendly destinations. Although Barry never had any biological children, he embraced, loved and taught many children with his magical way of teaching them to be dedicated and caring, and to have a strong work ethic.
During this last journey of Barry's life, he has brought together a family that has not been reunited like this in a very long time. Barry was a great listener, never judged and rendered wonderful wisdom.
Please toast Barry with a glass of red wine on what would have been his 70th birthday on April 12 at 6 p.m. Mountain Time. He would have loved it!
A celebration of life gathering is being planned for the future. If you would like to be notified about when and where that will take place, e-mail terri.fennessy@gmail.com to get details about the plans.