Dale Beckett

Wilbur “Dale” Beckett, 97, passed away at his home in Seal Beach, California on November 19, 2019 after a short battle with cancer.

He was born in the small farming town of Dalton City, IL on February 23, 1922 to parents Isephenia Grupp and Alvin Ray Beckett. His three older siblings Melvin, Grace and Flossie and two younger siblings George and Don preceded him in death.

He grew up in the nearby town of Macon, IL, graduating from high school there. At the age of 21 he was called to serve in the army during World War II, where he valiantly fought in New Guinea and in the Philippines during the infamous battle of Leyte Gulf.

Six weeks following his discharge at the conclusion of the war he married his longtime sweetheart, Anna “Lucille” Morgan. They were happily married for 55 years, until her death in 2001. Together they raised four children – John (Linda) Beckett, Jane (Robert) Langley, Craig (Tod) Beckett and David (Elaine) Beckett in the cities of Decatur, IL, South Gate, CA and Downey, CA.

His career years were spent mostly in retail. His longest employment was with Zodys Department Store where he worked as a District Manager.

Nothing made Dale happier than spending time with his family which include 10 grandchildren and 14 great-grandchildren. He loved to make people smile and laugh – even strangers. He is deeply missed.