David E. Beckwith

Beckwith, David E. David E. Beckwith, a prominent Milwaukee attorney, former President of the University of Wisconsin Board of Regents and community leader, died Saturday, April 14, 2012, in hospice at Saint John's on The Lake. He was 84. Mr. Beckwith had been a partner in the law firm of Foley & Lardner. He rose to prominence in the firm becoming head of Litigation and a member of the Senior Management Committee. His quick wit and incisive mind earned him a reputation as a fierce and successful advocate for his clients. He was also a revered mentor for others in the firm that grew from fewer than 30 lawyers in Milwaukee when he joined to 925 currently in 21 offices worldwide. Mr. Beckwith was also a leader in civic affairs. Some of the many organizations in which he served as President or Member included the Milwaukee Urban League, First Unitarian Church, World Affairs Council, We-Milwaukeeans and Wisconsin State Fair Board. He had a lifetime interest in sports, particularly fly-fishing and skiing. He served as National Secretary for Trout Unlimited and took an active role in preservation of American waterways and stream restoration. Mr. Beckwith was educated at the University of Wisconsin Madison graduating with degrees in Labor Economics B.S. and an LL.B. from the law school. He was a member of Phi Beta Kappa and Order of Coif and Leading Articles Editor of the Wisconsin Law Review. He was a devoted husband and father and is survived by his wife of 63 years, Natalie Biart Beckwith, three sons Steve, John and David, their three wives and six grandchildren. In lieu of flowers the family suggests contributions to the University of Wisconsin Foundation, 1848 University Ave., Madison, WI 53726 or Trout Unlimited, 1300 N. 17th St. #500, Arlington, VA 22209. A memorial service will be held Saturday, April 28, 2012, at 2:00 PM in the Cultural Arts Center at Saint John's on The Lake, 1800 N. Prospect Ave. A reception will immediately follow there in Museum Hall.