Menu
Search by Name
Search by Name
John Beckett Obituary
LAKEWAY, TX -- Michael Beckett (Jack), 65, of Lakeway, TX, a retired owner of Grand Haven Homes and entrepreneur, passed away peacefully in his sleep on July 26, 2024, at his home.
A Celebration of Life gathering will be held for Mike on Saturday, November 16, 2024 at 1 PM the American Legion Hall, 218 W. Main St. Ottawa, Ohio 45875 with a meal to be served.
Mike was born on April 3, 1959 in Waterloo, New York to Jack Cecil and Phyliss (Joni) Beckett.
Mike is survived by his wife, Barbara Maag Beckett, and two very beloved children, Katie (Heath Veytia) and Matt. His surviving siblings are Peggy Kruse, Patty, and Dan (Jennifer).
He is preceded in death by his parents and siblings Sally, Beverly (Gustwiller), Dave, Bill, and Mark.
He attended Ottawa-Glandorf High School and Bowling Green State University studying Construction Science.
During his storied career, his impact was certainly felt, as a businessman and mentor to many. His awards and achievements as a builder and entrepreneur are too numerous to list.
His interests were spending time with his family, hunting, fishing, and cooking. He was also an avid music enthusiast, enjoying everything from Waylon Jennings to Pink Floyd.
Mike was famous for his vow renewals. When he and Barbara celebrated their first renewal on their 25th anniversary, Mike said, "This is so much fun, let's do it every 5 years!" and so they did. They celebrated two subsequent vow renewals. On their 30th anniversary, Mike set up a treasure hunt in the sands of Turks and Caicos, where he had buried jewelry featuring pieces of eight from the Spanish galleon, Nuestra Señora de Atocha, which sunk in the 1600's. For their 35th anniversary, Mike had a message of love written in the sky above the vineyards of Napa Valley as they exchanged their vows.
Mike loved to host large groups of Katie and Matt's friends, making it a welcoming party for all. He became a master in how to cook for 30+ people and delighted many with everything from BBQ chicken to whole roasted hogs to Spanish paella.
His love of animals and the outdoors was well known, and he took joy in seeing his family embrace the beauty of nature.
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
Memories and Condolences
for John Beckett
Make a Donation
in John Beckett's name
Memorial Events
for John Beckett
How to support John's loved ones
Honor a beloved veteran with a special tribute of ‘Taps’ at the National WWI Memorial in Washington, D.C.
The nightly ceremony in Washington, D.C. will be dedicated in honor of your loved one on the day of your choosing.
Read more
Should I Send Sympathy Flowers?
What kind of arrangement is appropriate, where should you send it, and when should you send an alternative?
Read more
What Should I Write in a Sympathy Card?
We'll help you find the right words to comfort your family member or loved one during this difficult time.
Read moreResources to help you cope with loss
Estate Settlement Guide
If you’re in charge of handling the affairs for a recently deceased loved one, this guide offers a helpful checklist.
Read more
Obituaries, grief & privacy: Legacy’s news editor on NPR podcast
Legacy's Linnea Crowther discusses how families talk about causes of death in the obituaries they write.
Read more
The Five Stages of Grief
They're not a map to follow, but simply a description of what people commonly feel.
Read moreWays to honor John Beckett's life and legacy
Obituary Examples
You may find these well-written obituary examples helpful as you write about your own family.
Read more
Obituary Templates – Customizable Examples and Samples
These free blank templates make writing an obituary faster and easier.
Read more
How Do I Write a Eulogy?
Some basic help and starters when you have to write a tribute to someone you love.
Read more
