BEACHMAN, RICHARD J.

Richard Joseph Beachman, 86, of Grand Junction, died at his home on Wednesday, February 20, 2008. Richard was born to Richard Beachman and Mary Elizabeth Sloan in Auburn, NY in 1921. He graduated from Attica High School and received his Bachelor of Science degree from Niagara University. Richard enlisted in the United Stated Marine Corps and was called to active duty in 1942. He served as a second lieutenant in the South Pacific with the famed Edson’s Raiders of the First Marine Raider Battalion. In July 1944, he was wounded in the invasion of Guam. In 1946, he was retired to the USMC reserves as a decorated captain. In March of 1946, Richard married the love of his life, Juna Mae Griffith, a native of Palisade, CO. Juna was a lieutenant (J.G.) in the United States Navy Nurses Corp. The couple settled in the Syracuse, Plattsburgh and Albany, NY areas. Richard’s career began as a parole officer with the New York State Division of Parole in Syracuse. After earning a Master’s Degree in Social Work from Syracuse University, he was promoted to senior parole officer. After 35 years of distinguished service in his profession, he fulfilled his long-held dream of retiring to the Grand Valley, to enjoy the company of his many family members in the area. Retirement provided Dick and Juna many opportunities for travel, golf and reading. Richard is remembered by many for his dry, quick wit and his lively discussions of politics. He is fondly remembered by his children for being a very loving and generous father. he imparted to his children a love for education, a sense of inquiry and a rigorous work ethic. Richard is survived by his wife of 62 years and his sons Thomas (Sue) Beachman of Craig, CO; John Beachman (Debbie) of Longmont, CO; his daughters Teresa (Al) Huck of Lyons, CO; Janet (Don) Fishman of Oakton, VA; Nancy (Frank) Fabian of Virginia Beach, VA; and Barbara (Patrick Richardson) Beachman of Nymbrida, NSW, Australia. He is also survived by his brother Robert Beachman of Rochester, NY and 12 grandchildren. Richard was a member of the Knights of Columbus, the Disabled American Veterans and the Retired Officers’ Association. A memorial service will be held at Callahan-Edfast Mortuary on Monday, February 25, 2008 at 2:00 p.m.