Barbara Beckemeyer

(From Lakin Funeral Home)

Barbara Jean Beckemeyer, age 91, of Rolla, MO passed away on Tuesday, November 19, 2024, at Lacoba Nursing Home in Monett, MO with family by her side. 

She was born in Kellogg, ID on Tuesday, July 11, 1933; daughter of Arthur and Elsie (Tallon) Cooper. She was a 1951 graduate of Kellogg High School. 

She married Edward Jesse Beckemeyer, Jr. on Saturday, May 8, 1954, in Kellogg, ID. 

Barbara was a secretary at Phelps Health Hospital for many years. She was a member of Christ Episcopal Church in Rolla, MO where she served on the Altar Guild, board, and as a Sunday School teacher. She influenced the lives of many young girls as a Girl Scout Leader and council member for many years. Barbara enjoyed reading, crafting, traveling, shopping, and flowers. She enjoyed people and loved being with her friends and family. She will be missed by many.

Surviving are the following: three daughters, Elizabeth (Larry) Forney of Branson West, MO, Denise (Randy) Staponski of Wentworth, MO, and Susan (Doug) Whitlock of Indianola, IA; one son, Eric (Judy) Beckemeyer of Austin TX; ten grandchildren, Adam Forney, Amy (Joel) Myers, Candra Staponski, Jace (Jordan) Staponski, Blake (Lena) Staponski, Andrea (James) Camp, Kyle (Jenny) Beckemeyer; Nicole (Quinn) Gardner, Wesley (Mallory) Beckemeyer; and Jessica (Sean) McNamara; fifteen great-grandchildren; a brother, David "Gary" Cooper; many nieces, nephews, and friends.

Barbara was preceded in death by her parents, Arthur and Elsie Cooper; her husband, Edward Beckemeyer Jr; a grandson, Jason Tuttle; and a brother, Edwin Cooper.

Barbara has been cremated at her request. A Celebration of Life/Memorial Service will be in Rolla at a later date.

Memorials may be made to the Humane Society in care of the funeral home.