Francis Xavier Beers

Francis Xavier “Frank” Beers, 94, passed away peacefully on November 11, 2025—fittingly on Veterans Day, a day that honored a central part of his identity as a proud United States Air Force veteran. He was surrounded by the love of his family.

Frank was born on August 25, 1931, in Manhattan, New York, to Lucielle Ryan Beers and Alfred W. Beers. His mother passed away during childbirth, and he was lovingly raised by a devoted family that included his father; his grandparents, William and Sarah Beers; his Aunt Dorothy O’Brien; and later his stepmother, Margaret Beers. He grew up in the Bronx and graduated from Christopher Columbus High School.

In 1952, Frank enlisted in the Air Force, a decision that changed the trajectory of his life. While stationed at Mather Air Force Base in California, he met the love of his life, Vera Inez Newman, whom he married 73 years ago. His military career took them to assignments in California, Turkey, and England before he retired and settled into civilian life.

While stationed in Turkey, Frank served as the manager of a two-time championship Little League team that his older son played on. He was known not only for his strong coaching but also for his eye for talent, often spotting potential in young players before they recognized it in themselves.

After retiring when his youngest daughter was four, Frank became a small-business owner, a role that allowed him the flexibility to shuttle his daughter to school and activities while supporting his wife’s groundbreaking career in the federal government, where she shattered numerous glass ceilings.

Known for his gift of gab and unmistakable New York charm, Frank never met a stranger. He loved striking up conversations—often about sports, especially the Broncos, Rockies, and his beloved Yankees; his military adventures; or his many travels. If someone said they were born in a place he’d been, he would inevitably respond with his signature, “what a small world.”

Frank’s passions included bridge, bowling, road trips that often led to national parks, vacations to Hawaii, long walks through his Cherry Creek Vista neighborhood, and lunches with friends. He treasured visiting his sons in California and looked forward to his daily phone calls with his children. An avid reader, he often completed more than 50 books a year and was reading a biography of General MacArthur at the time of his passing.

Though he hadn’t lived in New York for more than seven decades, people often asked, “Are you from New York?”—and more specifically, “What part of the Bronx are you from?” He carried the spirit of his hometown with him always.

Above all, Frank adored his family. He is survived by his children William Beers, Michael Beers, and Cathy Lucas; his son-in-law Geoff Lucas; and his beloved grandchildren Mikey Beers, Taylor Lucas, and Fletcher Lucas, who affectionately called him “Papa.” He loved sharing stories, wisdom, and memories from his youth and his adventures with their grandmother. He reminded his grandchildren at every visit and every call just how proud he was of each of them.

Frank was preceded in death by his wife Vera of 66 years, who passed away in 2020. They were inseparable—often seen holding hands when walking into restaurants or stores—prompting strangers to comment on how sweet they were together.

His family is profoundly grateful for more than 70 years of memories, daily conversations, and the remarkable life he lived. Dad. Papa. Frank. He will be deeply missed and forever loved.

A military service will be held at Fort Logan National Cemetery on Friday, November 21 at 10:30 a.m., with a celebration of life to follow.