David Beebe

David Russell Beebe, 98, passed away peacefully on August 27, 2017, surrounded by his children and holding the hand of Muriel, his beloved wife of 76 years.

Russell was born on August 3, 1919, in Holden, Missouri, to Jane and George W. Beebe. Although his birth certificate lists August 2 as his official birth date, his six older brothers and sisters, who have all predeceased him, insisted that his birthday was August 3. Growing up on a farm as the youngest of seven children gave him a strong work ethic, a deep love of family, and an unwavering faith in God.

He graduated from William Chrisman High School in Independence and enjoyed success in multiple careers. First and foremost, he was a farmer, which he proudly advertised for several years with the prominent bumper sticker on the back of his pickup truck that proclaimed, “If you eat, you are involved in agriculture.” He worked on farms for the Reorganized Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints in Atherton, Missouri, and the Little Blue Valley for many years before purchasing his own farm in 1952 on a beautiful ridge between Buckner and Grain Valley. What he liked to describe as “the highest spot in Jackson County” had a view of the Missouri River valley from the back 40 acres and a glimpse of the evening lights of Oak Grove and Grain Valley from the front porch.

In addition to farming, Russell worked as a fireman at the Lake City Ammunition Plant, and at Clark Manufacturing Company in Atherton. He started at Clark’s in the packing department but was tapped as a salesman for the company and eventually rose to become Sales Manager and then President before the company was purchased. He continued to farm and enjoyed using his real estate license before he retired.

Although Russell often worked several jobs simultaneously, his family was always his highest priority and remains his most cherished legacy. Russell married Muriel Hughes on August 3, 1941, which gave another reason to ensure that August 3 was always a day of celebration. Russell is survived by Muriel and their five children: Ken (and wife Rita), Daryl (and partner C. J. Johnson), Steven (and wife Sue), Janice (and husband Ron Affolter), and Carl (and wife DeLynn). Russell and Muriel have eight grandchildren, twelve great-grandchildren, and two great-great grandchildren. Russell is predeceased by his parents and siblings.

In addition to his family, Russell’s unswerving faith was a prevailing source of comfort, wisdom, and guidance throughout his life. He enjoyed quoting lengthy passages from the scriptures, with Isaiah being a favorite source. Russell and Muriel were active members of the Buckner Restoration Branch, where he provided many years of ministry as a speaker, teacher, and visitor to those in need.

Memorial contributions may be made to the Buckner Restoration Branch. Visitation will be August 31st 9:00 am to 11:00 am, funeral service immediately following at Buckner Restoration Church 2607 N Twyman RD. Independence Mo (1.5 miles North of Fort Osage HS). Interment will be at Mound Grove Cemetery 1818 River Blvd. Independence, Missouri