Donald “Don” Raymond Beckman, 88, of Rockford, passed away peacefully at home on March 28, 2026. He was born on November 29, 1937, in Alton, Illinois, the son of Raymond and Martha (Politte) Beckman. He married Ruby Downing on December 26, 1959, in Fayetteville, North Carolina. They spent 64 wonderful years together until her passing on May 20, 2024. Don served as a Sergeant in the 82nd Airborne Division of the U.S. Army in Fort Bragg, North Carolina from 1956 through 1959. He went on to spend his career in Industrial Sales and Operations with various companies and retired from O.H. Industries. Don landed in Rockford in 1968 where he and Ruby enjoyed the rest of their years together forming numerous friendships along the way. Don lived life to the fullest with numerous hobbies; avid golfer for over 50+ years, boating, coin collecting, dogs, fixing anything, college sports, automobiles and most of all his Cadillac Allante Club. Don loved his retirement years with Ruby at Magnolia Greens in Leland, North Carolina where he enjoyed golfing and doing puzzles. Don was a compassionate, loving, caring and understanding husband, father, grandfather and friend.

Don is survived by his son, Steve (Andrea); grandchildren, Alexis, Bradley, and Connor; siblings, James Beckman & Mary (Moine) McGibany; numerous nieces & nephews. He is predeceased by his wife, Ruby, his parents, and his sister Shirley.

A special thank you to Transitions Hospice, caregiver Heather, and his longtime caregiver and buddy Diane.

A memorial visitation will be held for Don on Saturday, April 4, 2026, from 10:00 a.m. through 11:30 a.m. Eulogy and time of sharing will take place at 11:30 a.m. with Military Honors to follow. All taking place at Fitzgerald Funeral Home & Crematory, 1860 S. Mulford Rd, Rockford, IL 61108. We invite you to a celebration of life following Military Honors at SM&SF Club 1010 Sandy Hollow Rd, Rockford. To send your condolences online and share memories, please visit www.fitzgeraldfh.com