Beauford Udell

Beauford Udell, beloved husband, father, grandfather, great grandfather, friend and American War Hero, passed away peacefully November 23, 2025 at the age of 100.
He was born in Beloit to Beauford and Helen (Brittan) Udell. He spent most his life in Beloit, graduating from Beloit High School. He served in the 8th Army Air Force in World War II from 1943- 1945. He was a staff sergeant, and the ball turret gunner in a B-17 flying 32 missions over Europe. Beauford spoke openly and proudly about his service, a role demanding bravery, believing he fought because it was his duty. In 1947 he married Alta M. Dickerson and shared a marriage of 61 years. They built a home filled with love, laughter and enduring values that shaped generations.
He was an electrical contractor from 1955 to 1990 (and beyond) Udell Electric, where his honesty and work ethic earned the respect of his colleagues and customers. He served on the Electrical Board of Beloit from 1958 until 1970, and also Town of Beloit Electrical Board. Beauford was a member of the Second congregational church.
Beauford found joy in adventure and solace in the outdoors. Boating, camping, fishing and scuba diving were his passions which he passed on to his children. He explored oceans, dove under the ice, respected nature and camped with Alta across the country.
He is survived by his three daughters, Jan (Robert) Knutson, Julie Udell, and Joanie (Scott) Smith; granddaughters, Michelle (Matt) Schwarz and Julia Jordan; grandson, Shane Potter; step grandsons, Zach (Sarah) and Tim (Patty)Knutson; great grandchildren, Sophie and Sam Schwarz, Connor, Reese, Brynn, Robert and Kollin Knutson; sisters in-law, Rose Rodgers and Lynda Christensen; many much loved nieces and nephews.
He was predeceased in death by his loving wife Alta, Son, Britt, grandson Max Merlet, son in law Russ Merlet, sister and brother in-law Jeanne and Ray Essington and brother Bob Udell.
Dad lived life a life defined by courage, devotion, humility, integrity and love for his family and country. He will be forever remembered. We are incredibly proud of our father.
Special thanks to Riverside Terrace especially Kim, Janelle, Connie and Nicole, also a very Special thanks to Mark Finnegan and his organization for so many opportunities over the years.
A Memorial service for Beauford will be at 11:00 a.m. Saturday, December 13, 2025 in Daley Murphy Wisch& Associates Funeral Home and crematorium, 2355 Cranston Rd., Beloit, WI, with Chaplain Mark Maxted officiating. A visitation of remembrance will be from 10:00 a.m. until the time of service Saturday in the funeral home.
In Lieu of flowers, donations to Vets Roll would be appreciated.