William J.(Bill) Beaman, Col. USAR, crossed his final finish line on February 15, 2012 at St. Peter’s Hospital, five years after being diagnosed with a pancreatic neuroendocrine carcinoid tumor. He did so with a soldier’s courage and his own personal grace. He never gave up. He never gave in.
Bill was born in Missoula on July 31, 1945 to Dallas W. and Mary Jane (Deegan) Beaman, both deceased. He was a Montana native who earned his B.S. degree in Business/Personnel Management from the University of Montana in1967. Bill completed his MBA degree in Business/Finance at U of M in 1972. He earned his Certified Financial Planner Degree from the College of Financial Planning in 1977.
Bill’s work career combined business with his military service. For 31 years, he served in the U.S. Army, first in Active Duty and then in the Reserves, rising to the rank of Colonel. He performed various duties in intelligence, administration and logistics while stationed in Washington, Turkey, Iran, Pakistan, Saudi Arabia, Iraq, Kuwait and Minnesota. Bill commanded 3,600 soldiers from July 1992 to July 1996. He was a veteran of the Vietnam Era and Operation Desert Storm. Bill was awarded the Legion of Merit for his service.
When Bill was asked about his military service, you would hear how proud he was to be there with Montana National Guard soldiers as they left Helena for the dangers of the fight in Iraq and Afghanistan. He could bring you to tears talking about how grateful he was to be there to welcome those solders home when they returned. You felt the strength in this man, his great humility and humanity.
Bill excelled in the business world. He was very proud of his time at D.A. Davidson and Company, spanning some 28 years. He began as an Administrative Assistant to the President and rose to Office Manager, responsible for a 10-person office that advised 800 clients on investments totaling over $30 million. His title, Vice President/Investment Advisor and his tripling of the operating budget to $1 million dollars over the term of his service are the highlights of his business career, but not the important story. When Bill was your advisor, you knew you were going to be told about the risks as well as the potential rewards of any stock or bond he was recommending or some friend of yours was telling you to buy. Bill also found time to teach Personal Financial Planning and Investment Analysis from 1972-1982 at both Carroll College and the College of Great Falls.
Bill completed his career as President/Owner of Grizzly Capital Management from February 2000 until February 2012. He was a partner in the business of helping so many people prepare for retirement. He was a trusted friend.
Service to his community seemed to come easily and naturally to Bill. The list of organizations he supported and worked within to improve is awesome. YMCA Board of Directors, 1975 to 1979. Helena Federal Credit Union Board of Directors, 1981-1988. St. Peter’s Episcopal Church Vestry, 1991-1994 (Treasurer) 2001-2005. Carroll College President’s Advisory Council, 1992-1993, University of Montana President’s Advisory Council 1992-2012. University of Montana Alumni Association, 1987-1991 (President) 1990-1991. St. Peter’s Hospital Foundation, 1983 to 1987 (President) 1987. United Way of Lewis and Clark County, 1975-1982, (President and Drive Chairman) 1978. Helena Rotary Club, 1983-2012(President) 1987-1988. Helena Ambassadors, 2003-2012 (President) 2007-2008. Gateway to Freedom Air Show, 2009 (Executive Board and Treasurer). Helena Regional Airport Authority 2009-2012 (Chairman) 2011-2012. Civilian Aide to the Secretary of the Army-Montana, September 2008-2010. He also was serving on the Editorial Board of the Helena Independent Record at the time of his death.
Bill did not have to be President or Chairman of a community organization to get involved. He delighted in helping, whatever was needed. He and wife Dianne sponsored the renovation of a room at the YWCA, bought a brick to help complete the construction of the new Friendship Center, sold and installed bricks in support of the Old Glory Landmark Flag in Centennial Park, spoke for several years at the Helena Education Foundation Great Conversations gathering and made countless cash contributions to groups and organizations that help those in need.
Bill’s work at St. Peter’s Hospital is a record of dedication that will inspire us all to renew our community service. He enthusiastically promoted the new cancer care center, telling everyone that “Dr. Weiner and his ‘Angels’(the nurses) as well as the entire staff of St. Peter’s Hospital were the best soldiers and friends a guy could have in this fight. There was never finer care given to anyone, anywhere in the country.” They gently helped Bill home on the last leg of his journey.
Family was very important to Bill. He married Vicki Jean Watson in Great Falls in 1967. Vicki passed away in 2001. They had two sons, Derek M (Wendy Pautz) Beaman, Seattle, Washington, and Ryan J. Beaman, Bozeman. Bill was very proud of his sons.
He found love for the rest of his life when he met and married Dianne McKittrick on November 24, 2007. He felt blessed that he acquired three girls in the deal — Dianne’s daughter Molly (Ryan) Phillips and two precious granddaughters, Avery (5) and Piper (3 mos.). These children were the apples of his eye.
Dianne shared Bill’s love of running, seeing the world and sharing the lives of family. You see into Bill’s heart when you read his inscription on his June 2012 picture in her copy of the “Life in Motion” Calendar. It says, “Dianne, you are truly my dearest blessing. All my love, Bill”.
Bill is survived by his wife, Dianne, twin sister Peggy (Bill) Olson of Polson, sister Patti (Butch) Carter of Belfair, Washington, brother Michael (Laura) Beaman of Portland, Oregon, sons Derek (Wendy Pautz) and Ryan, daughter Molly(Ryan) Phillips, Avery and Piper of Hawaii, numerous nieces and nephews, mother and father-in-law Art and Beverly Braut of Helena and brother-in-law Sam (Judy) Murfitt of Helena.
Visitation is scheduled from 1-4 p.m. Sunday, February 19th, and 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. Monday, February 20th at Anderson Stevenson Wilke Funeral Home, 3750 N. Montana Ave. A Mass of Christian Burial will be 11:00 a.m. Tuesday, February 21st at St. Peter’s Episcopal Church with burial with full military honors to follow at Montana State Veterans Cemetery at Ft. Harrison. By declaration of Gov. Brian Schweitzer, all flags on the property of the State of Montana will be flown at half-staff on Tuesday in honor of Bill. A reception will immediately follow the burial at the Helena Regional Airport in the Airport Reception Room, 2850 Skyway Drive. Memorials are suggested to St. Peter’s Cancer Treatment Center c/o St. Peter’s Hospital, 2475 Broadway, Helena, MT 59601, the Wounded Warrior Project by visiting www.woundedwarriorproject.org , or to St. Peter’s Episcopal Cathedral, 511 N. Park Ave, Helena, MT 59601. Condolences may be sent to the family by visiting: www.aswfuneralhome.com
2 Timothy 4:7
I have fought the good fight.
I have finished the race.
I have kept the faith.
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BG, Ret Mike Ferguson, CASA, Fl says
With my prayers and condolences to your loved ones in memory of your life, family and service. Mike
Brooke Anderson says
Dianne and family, I was just shocked to hear of your loss. Dianne I used to wait on you and Bill at the Silver Star. Bill had to drink to the bottom of the star on the glass before you allowed him to drink anything else, and he thought you were trying to flood him! I used to raise my eyebrow for him, but I could never do it on command. You two had so many wonderful stories about both your families and grandbabies. I was so blessed to meet the both of you. I am so sorry for your loss.
Cari and Bryan Harris says
Molly,and family, we are so sorry to hear of your loss. Please find comfort in knowing that you will forever have an angel in heaven. You are in our thoughts.
Colleen Rhein Carpenter says
Dianne – When I waited tables at Bert & Ernie’s, I always looked forward to serving you and Bill. I would lovingly harass him and he thoroughly enjoyed it. You and I would commiserate about the male species, i.e. Bill. Love to you and your family.
Craig and Barb Sharpe says
Bill was such a sensitive and caring person. He always put others before himself. Whenever he was asked “how are you” he always said “I’m fine” and you knew he didn’t want to burden you with his problems. All our love to Dianne and the rest of the family.
Crossroads Sports & Fitness says
Bill Beaman was a bright light at our club. We will miss him greatly. God bless Bill and his family.
Dave Lewis says
What a loss to his family, his friends and the community. What a great guy!
Heather Higgins says
Bill, you are my hero. You faced each and every day with courage and an optimistic mind. It was a true honor to sit by your side on Wednesday night. May God welcome you to His heavenly kingdom, where you can run and not be weary. Love and miss you!
Heather, Kevin, Quincey and Kenley
Helen Richter says
To the family of Jim Beaman:
I was sorry to hear that Jim passed away. My thoughts and prayers are with your family at this difficult time.
Sincerely,
Helen Richter
Helena Montana
Jack Davant says
I am so sorry to hear about Bill’s passing. As I have been out of town, I wasn’t aware until today. Bill was a good friend and a good soldier.
Jan Clinard says
Diane,
You were blessed to have one another during these last few years. His gratitude for your laughter, strength and love was evident. As you face the void he left, I hope you can find strength in remembering the joy you gave each other and the outpouring of love that all those who knew Bill have expressed.
Jane Benson says
I am deeply sorry for the too-early death of Bill Beaman. I first met him here in Helena 20+ years ago when we both served on the U of M Alumni Assn Board, and when Bill helped my elderly mother and I learn what to do with old stocks and bonds that she inherited. Bill was a genuine “good citizen” and then some.
Jeff Ryan says
Well Class of 69 – that was about a fine of race that was ever run – Bill’s race is over, but yours has just begun – pick up the pace and enjoy all those treasures you have left (especially those “little ones”) –
– The other Class of 69 –
John Edwards says
Bill taught us all something about integrity, devotion to duty and other life lessons all laced with a necessary touch of good humor.
In the short time they had, he and Dianne wrote a true love story.
Bill you will be sorely missed and long remembered.
John
CASA – Utah
John Emery says
Bill,
You were a good friend and a very caring person.
The commnuity of Helena, The National Guard of Montana, and your friends and family will miss you much.
John Emery and Karen Zepernick
Judy Braut Wolfe says
Dianne, John was just in Helena and your mom gave him a packet from your husbands funeral. I just wanted you know how sorry I am for you. To find love again in our lives is very special but to lose your husband is heart breaking. Please know that you are in my thoughts and prayers. Love, Judy
Judy Smith says
Dear Dianne,
I am so sorry to hear of Bill’s passing. He was a great gentleman and loved by all those who knew him. I am very grateful to know you both. My thoughts and prayers are with you and your family always.
Karen Tenneson says
Diane I am so sorry to hear about Bill. He always had a smile and a joke. My thoughts and prayers are with you and your family. Love Karen
Klyle Stall says
Having served with Bill during the first gulf war, it is alway sad to hear of the passing of a conrad in arms. My thoughts and prayers are with the family during this time of their sorrow.
Linda L. Smith says
I am so sad to hear of the passing of such a wonderful human being. I worked with Bill in the late 70’s at D.A.D. He actually had faith in my ability and taught me to give everything I have and never give up. It was my first experience in the Financial world. I wish his Family all the best in the future. they have had the best in him.
Linda Murfitt Clemes says
Dianne and all
I am so sorry for your loss. My heart is heavy this morning as I think of you on this difficult day. I wish that I could be there with you but know I am with you in spirit, praying for strength as you make your way throught the day.
Linda
Luella Schultz says
Dianne
Please accept my deepest condolences.
Luella
Maria Tollefson says
I just want to say I am sorry for your loss. Bill was such a wonderful person and he left a lasting impression on me and I will never forget him. Take care Diane you are so wonderful and you and Bill were so lucky to have each other. If there was every a great husband and wife who were so much love it would be the two of you. If you need anything please let me know I am always there for you. 443-0382. Good bye Bill you will be truely missed.
Mary Kunnary says
Dianne and family-God Bless you and your family for your loss. Bill was a wonderful person and will be greatly missed. Our thoughts and prayers are with you. Love to all.
Misti Dauenhauer says
My heart goes out to the Family of COL Beaman, I was very lucky to serve under his Command in the 159th SPT GRP. God Bless!
Robert Kohler says
My sincere condolences. I had the pleasure of working with Bill about 10 years ago in San Antonio. Bill was part of a group of consultants contracted by USAA to help with disaster planning. Our time working together was brief compared to his other phenomenal life accomplishments. However, he always had a smile and a helpful answer to whatever issue was at hand. Im glad to have known him. God bless.
SHERWOOD (WOODY) GOLDBERG says
MY DEEPEST SYMPATHIES ARE CONVEYED TO THE FAMILY AND FRIENDS OF THE LATE-BILL BEAMAN. BILL WAS A VALUED FRIEND WITH WHOM I WAS HONORED TO SERVE AS THE CIVILIAN AIDE TO THE SECRETARY OF THE ARMY FOR WASHINGTON, D.C.. BILL WAS A TRUE PATRIOT WHO GAVE HIS ALL FOR OUR ARMY, OUR SOLDIERS AND THEIR FAMILIES AND OUR NATION. MAY HIS LEGACY ENDURE AND MAY HE REST IN PEACE.
WOODY GOLDBERG, CASA SENIOR FOR D.C.
Ted Davis says
My thoughts and prayers are with you.