John Joseph Beckman

In Loving Memory of John Joseph Beckman

John Joseph Beckman, age 77, of Davenport, Florida, passed away on May 3, 2025, at AdventHealth Celebration. He was born on August 23, 1947, in Cincinnati, Ohio, to the late John Frank Beckman and Josephine Hoyt Beckman. 

A proud veteran of the United States Army, John served his country from 1966 to 1968, achieving the rank of Specialist 4. His service in Vietnam earned him numerous commendations, including the National Defense Service Medal, Vietnam Service Medal with two Bronze Service Stars, Vietnam Campaign Medal with device 60, Combat Infantryman’s Badge, Purple Heart with 1st Oak Leaf Cluster, and the Army Commendation Medal. His military service remained a defining part of his life and a source of deep pride. 

In 2004, John and his wife relocated from Acworth, Georgia, to Davenport, Florida. He spent 35 years working in the crane and hoist industry as a sales manager, retiring in 2011. He was also a member of First Presbyterian Church in Winter Haven, where he found spiritual community and support. 

John was a Mason for more than 45 years and was deeply involved in volunteer work alongside his wife, Deborah. Whether helping at events or supporting local causes, he was always ready to lend a hand. He cherished his connections with fellow veterans and looked forward to reunions with his two beloved military groups, the Red Warriors and the 716th Military Police Battalion.  

A true family man, John loved coaching and cheering on his children and grandchildren in their sports and activities. He was a devoted planner and travel enthusiast, visiting all 50 states—many trips of which he personally organized. He had a creative spirit in the kitchen and enjoyed crafting new recipes for family and friends to enjoy. A fan of racing and military and police documentaries, he always found joy in the things he loved. 

John was also known as his wife’s biggest supporter—her “roadie,” always present at her singing performances, proud and encouraging. With his sense of humor, generosity, and gift for storytelling, John was a neighbor and friend to many, and he brought laughter wherever he went. 

He was preceded in death by his parents, John and Josephine. Left to honor his memory are his loving wife of 53 years, Deborah Beckman; his son, Brian Beckman and wife, Samantha of Opelika, Alabama; his daughter, Julia Walton and husband, Jason of Buford, Georgia; and his four cherished grandchildren: Cole, Alexandria, Helena, and Kelloen.

A memorial service will be held at a later date. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to First Presbyterian Church Winter Haven or Tunnels to Towers Foundation (dogood.t2t.org).