Michael Allen Beeks

1950 - 2022

Michael Allen Beeks- born in 1950, passed away August 2, 2022 with family at his side. He grew up in White Salmon, WA with parents Allen and Dora, and younger siblings Gary and Cathy. After high school, he attended Clark College in Vancouver, WA and then joined the Army National Guard for 6 years.

Growing up he developed a love for the outdoors and hunting and moved to Klamath Falls in 1981 to attend OIT where he obtained a degree in Gunsmithing. After working at both Payless and Big R, he opened his own business, Grayback Wildcats, and supplied ammunition components for Cabela's, as well as building and repairing guns.

He married Cristy Sheckels in 1984, and celebrated the birth of their son, Sean, in 1986. Owning his own business allowed him the opportunity to coach Sean in both football and baseball, and to enjoy his passion of hunting. He had many successful hunts, filling that 'once in a lifetime' Big Horn Sheep tag and going on a couple guided Elk trips in Idaho and Nevada.

He had worked for a painting contractor in Vancouver and when he found that gunsmithing would work better for him as a hobby, he became a painting contractor. He loved seeing the impact a coat of paint could have to someone's home.

Mike was diagnosed with cancer 5 years ago and gave up painting , but was able to continue to camp, hunt, and fish with his family. During this time, he welcomed into the family his favorite daughter-in-law, Tashina, and precious granddaughter, Lillian.

Mike is survived by his wife Cristy, son Sean (Tashina), granddaughter Lils, siblings, and nieces and nephews.

The family will honor Mike's wishes for a private burial.