Brian Jerome Beechie

Brian Beechie, 88, passed away September 11, 2024, at his home in Walla Walla, WA, with family near him. He was born in Nome, ND, to Ronald H. and Wilma Beechie. He was in the 5th grade when the family moved to Litchville, ND, graduating from high school there in 1953. It was there that he met his mate for life, Janet Engebretson. They were married in January 1954 and recently celebrated their 70th wedding anniversary.

After graduating from North Dakota State University in 1957, Brian accepted a job with the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, which began at Garrison Dam in ND. In 1960, he moved with his family to Walla Walla, WA, where he worked for the Corps of Engineers for 35 years before retiring.

He will be remembered for his many years of volunteer coaching youth basketball at St Pat’s and DeSales Jr-Sr High, Little League baseball, and golf. Brian had a special talent for creative woodwork, both large and small projects. He loved to garden and took meticulous care of their yard. He was a member of St. Patrick Parish. His family and Catholic faith were first and foremost in his life.

He is survived by his wife, Janet; three sons, Scott (Sue McGlynn), Tim (Whitney), and John; two granddaughters; one great-granddaughter; and nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his parents and parents-in-law; brothers, Eugene and Gary Beechie; and brother-in-law, Duane Engebretson.

We wish to extend a special thank you to Hospice, who provided care and support during Brian’s final days.

A Memorial Mass will be held on Monday, October 14, 2024, at 11:00 AM, at St. Patrick Catholic Church with Father Steven Dublinski, celebrant . Burial will be held on Tuesday, October 15, 2024, at 10:00 AM, at Mountain View Cemetery in Walla Walla.

Donations in his memory may be made to St. Patrick Parish, Walla Walla Catholic Schools, Walla Walla Community Hospice, or a charity of your choice through the Herring Groseclose Funeral Home, 315 W Alder St, Walla Walla WA 99362. Friends and family are invited to sign the online guestbook at www.herringgroseclose.com.