Kenneth N. Beckman

The Beckman and Conklin families sadly announce the passing of Retired Colonel Kenneth N. Beckman, who died peacefully in his sleep on Friday morning, October 31, 2025, at the age of 103.

Ken was a dedicated family man and friend, born August 7, 1922, in Northampton, Massachusetts. He started playing trumpet at age four, became New England's youngest union musician, and performed with big bands while his father drove him to the performances because he was too young to drive.

After graduating from high school, he entered the U.S. Naval Academy. Following the declaration of World War II, he, along with several fellow midshipmen, enlisted in the Army Air Corps. During WWII, Ken served as a navigator with the 305th Bomb Group, 366th Bomb Squadron. Ken courageously completed 48 missions during World War II, including 19as lead navigator. After the war, Ken continued to serve his country in four wars. He retired from the United States Air Force in 1972 after serving as program director of the C-5A at the Air Force Systems Project Office.

His exceptional service earned him numerous honors, including the Legion of Merit, Distinguished Flying Cross with one Oak Leaf Cluster, the Air Medal with five Oak Leaf Clusters (one silver), the American Campaign Medal, the European–African–Middle Eastern Campaign Medal with three bronze stars, and the World War II Victory Medal and other commendations for bravery under fire.

Post-war, he rose through the ranks, becoming a program director for the C-5 Galaxy heavy logistics aircraft, overseeing its development and deployment. Ken was a remarkable man whose impact was felt by all who met him. Beyond being a veteran, he contributed significantly to several communities, including the National Museum of the Mighty Eighth Air Force, the United States Power Squadrons, the St. Petersburg Yacht Club, and the Coast Guard Auxiliary. These are just a few of the places where his presence made a difference, where he showed up, where he gave back, and where he quietly and humbly made a lasting difference. He shared stories to educate, connect, and inspire. His presence made others feel acknowledged, whether they knew him briefly or for decades. On Ken's 100th birthday, the City Council and Mayor of St. Petersburg adopted a resolution naming a day in his honor-Kenneth Beckman Day. Ken was one of a kind. A man of character, courage, and kindness. We were lucky to have him for 103 years. That alone is a legacy worthy of a medal.

Ken is preceded in death by 1st wife. Margaret Hobbie Beckman. He is survived by his spouse, Connie Beckman, children: Peggy and Terry Hammer, Ken and Linda Beckman, John and Jane Beckman, and Susan and Steve Brookman. His stepchildren: Virginia and Jeff Smith; Clifton and Patrica Conklin, and Kenneth and Kimberlee Conklin; eight grand children and six great-grandchildren.

A Celebration of Life will be held on November 22, 2025, at 2 PM at Christ United Methodist Church, 467 1st Ave N., St Petersburg, FL, to honor and celebrate Ken's life. In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests donations to the Mighty Eighth Air Force Museum, or the United States Power Squadrons in his memory