Michael Beckius

1938 - 2025

Michael Beckius

December 21, 1938 - January 24, 2025

"Life should not be a journey to the grave with the intention of arriving safely in a pretty and well-preserved body, but rather to skid in broadside in a cloud of smoke, thoroughly used up, totally worn out, and loudly proclaiming "Wow! What a Ride!"

Michael "Mike" Lee Beckius was born on December 21, 1938, in La Grange, WY, to Francis (Frank) and Nora (McCormick) Beckius. He grew up in Stapleton, Nebraska, alongside his beloved siblings: his fierce protector, older sister Mary, his lifelong best friend, older brother James "Jim," and looking out for his younger brother, Charles "Chuck."

As a child, Mike attended McDaid and St. Patrick's Catholic Schools. After years of giving the nuns several headaches and a run for their money with his best friend Larry Drost, Mike famously earned himself an early exit from parochial school after a spirited debate with the head priest regarding the Immaculate Conception. Having grown up on a farm, he was quick to point out that "that's not how it works," and to his delight (and perhaps a little mischief), he was asked to leave. He then graduated from North Platte High School. Upon finishing school, he proudly served in the U.S. Air Force.

Mike married the love of his life, Sharlene Kiser, on June 21, 1959, in North Platte, Nebraska. Shortly after, they embarked on their life together in California, where they built a home filled with love, laughter, and a unique bond that spanned 64 remarkable years. They were known for their playful bickering, exchanging good-natured jabs that always made those around them smile nervously, while they snickered to each other. Beneath the surface, they spoke a secret language that no one else could understand. Mike and Shar balanced each other out like salt and pepper. Through every challenge and triumph, Mike and Shar remained partners, best friends, and each other's greatest allies.

Together they raised their two children, a son, Scott, and a daughter, Kathy. The Beckius family was known for their adventures, whether it was waterskiing on Lake Berryessa or impromptu family escapades in the decked-out van. Mike and Shar always tried to make life fun and full of surprises for their family. Michael loved to recall one memorable afternoon, when Scott and Kathy were deep into an intense water balloon fight with the neighbors, so naturally he showed up with the ultimate secret weapon-a fire engine from the station. He gleefully hosed down the opposing team, leaving Scott, Kathy the champions, and their friends soaked and laughing. His sense of humor and love for a good time made life an adventure.

Mike joined the Vallejo Fire Department in 1962, dedicating his career to the safety of his community. He rose through the ranks to become Assistant Fire Chief. Throughout his career, he forged lifelong bonds with some of the most courageous and dedicated individuals he had the honor of serving alongside at the Vallejo Fire Department. His firefighter brothers weren't just colleagues; they became family. Even long after retirement, Michael cherished these friendships, holding onto the camaraderie and shared experiences that defined his years of service. These relationships remained a vital and cherished part of his life every day, a testament to the unbreakable bonds forged in the firehouse.

Mike was instrumental in creating advanced training programs that set new standards for the fire service. Mike devoted himself to making sure Vallejo Fire Department was the most advanced forces in the state and took a progressive and steadfast approach to improving at every chance in his leadership. He took pride in helping develop Vallejo Fire Department and young cadets, modernizing and guiding them with his experience, knowledge, and unwavering commitment to the job.

Though he saved numerous lives during his career, pulling people from burning buildings, wreckage, earthquake rubble was just a part of who he was. Mike, he never boasted about his duties. For him, it was simply part of the job, a responsibility he fulfilled with humility and professionalism. His actions spoke louder than words, earning him respect from both his colleagues and the community he served. Mike retired in 1992 after a distinguished tenure, but never truly left the fire service. After retirement, he continued to teach fire science and work to develop training programs throughout the State of California for various fire academies and cities. Mike was also a committed member of the community, serving as a member of the Elks Lodge and as an officer for the Vallejo Police-Firemen Benefit Association.

Mike was absolutely devoted to being a grandfather, and nothing brought him more joy than spending time with his granddaughter and her children. He shared a special bond with each member of his family in their own unique ways. He loved teaching Cody how to use power tools, paint and run their imaginary restaurant The Lavender Frog.

One of Mike's favored recollections was a spontaneous adventure with his granddaughter Cody, just after his 1992 heart attack. Defying his doctor-ordered bed rest, Mike beckoned Cody to come along on an unforgettable day of fun. They snuck out of the house and traveled from the Vallejo Waterfront to San Francisco by ferry, hailed a cab, rode a trolley, BART train, and even a peddle bike. They then finished their trip in a horse-drawn carriage to FAO Schwarz, where they played the grand floor piano that they had seen on T.V. Though their escapade sparked a frantic search by Shar and practically all their family and friends, it remained one of the closest moments Mike ever felt to Heaven while still on this Earth.

In 2018, Mike and Shar embraced retirement in Kilgore, Texas, where they enjoyed the tranquility of small-town life, surrounded by their granddaughter Cody and their great-grandsons Hunter, Colton, and little Michael "Mikey."

When it came to his love of classic cars, Mike offered hands-on lessons to teenage Hunter and shared stories of the golden era of automobiles and what fun to be had. He would often find himself in the kitchen baking with Colton, letting him take charge in the kitchen, even if it meant a bit of extra flour on the counter. He loved teaching Little Mikey the basics of woodworking and the importance of manufacturing your own sawdust, or "man glitter."

More than anything, Mike always tried to spoil each person he loved with his time and attention. Whether it was indulging his family in their hobbies, sneaking extra treats, or telling every single one of them that they were his favorite person, his family was his pride and joy. His devotion to his children, granddaughter, and grandchildren was endless, and he cherished every moment spent with them, leaving behind memories that he hoped they will treasure for a lifetime.

In keeping with his wishes, there will be no formal services or flair. Michael will be laid to rest in Stapleton's Loup Valley Cemetery, reunited with his beloved wife and family.

He was predeceased by his devoted wife, Sharlene; parents, Frank and Nora Beckius; his siblings, Mary, Jim, and Chuck; and his grandson, Scott Beckius Jr.

Michael is survived by his son, Scott (Susan); daughter, Kathleen (Brian Christof); granddaughter, Cody (Kiefer Bounds); great-grandsons, Hunter, Colton, and Michael Bounds; and many beloved nieces and nephews.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions can be made to the Loup Valley Cemetery in Stapleton, Nebraska, or the Vallejo Police-Firemen's Benefit Association.