Officer Don A. Beckstead Arizona Department of Public Safety Arizona Sunday, February 7, 1971  Leave a Reflection  Return to Memorial  Print This Page  Continue Building Book  Page: 1 of 1

Don,

I never met you, however I have had the honor to meet your family. I know you are proud of them. They are one amazing family. In 2007 I was honored to name my K9 partner "Becky" after you. I know you watch down on us everyday that we are out doing our job. I know you are with us. I hope we are making you proud. Becky loves your family. You would never think she was a working dog. She has so much joy. You and your family will always have a special place in my heart. I want to thank your family for sharing you life with me. I am truly honored to have my K9 partner named after one amazing officer, husband and dad. thank you for your service. I will never forget!

Sydney,

Becky is doing great. She is out catching alot of bad guys and getting alot of drugs off the street. Hope to see you soon.

Officer Wilhelm & K9 Don "Becky" Beckstead

K9 Officer Wilhelm
AZ DPS
2009-10-29

It always makes my eyes water to see your picture. I was 3 when you left us. I still remember when I reached your last age of 28. I thought it so strange to be as old as my father. I also think about how your last time was spent on an air ambulance and how even though it didn't lead to my job choice that I am now flying air ambulance as a nurse in the same region where you died. I'd sure like to talk to you. I'd tell you we miss you, but we turned out alright. Love Scott

Scott Beckstead
Don's youngest son.
2009-09-12

I wish I got to meet you.
Dear Dad,
i'm sorry that your dad died when you were only 3.
When are we going to see Don Beckey again I miss her (Don Beckey is a K9 with AZ DPS named for Grandfather). How many drugs has she found lately?
Love Sydney

Sydney Beckstead
grand-daughter, age 8
2009-09-12

We offer our heartfelt sympathy to the family, friends and colleagues of Officer Beckstead and we honor his distinguished service to the cause of justice and peace. Sadly, our nation has lost one of its finest citizens, a community has lost a friend and protector, and a family has lost an example of character and courage who they will love and respect forever.

To the family, friends, and colleagues of Officer Beckstead, I would like you to know that a lot of people pray for you, and my hope is that their prayers will give you the strength necessary to move on. Just as you were always with him when he walked the beat or patrolled the streets, know that he will always be with you - wherever you may be. In the days to follow, may you be strengthened by the fact that Officer Beckstead is a man distinguished by exceptional courage and will always be admired for his brave deeds and noble qualities. You, your family, and your sacrifice will never be forgotten.

It was their duty to serve; it is ours to remember.

Special Agent
FBI New York City
2009-08-09

This morning I attended a memorial service in Phoenix for fallen Federal Officers. I heard this, "To live in hearts we leave behind is not to die". You do live in my heart--but I wish I could touch you.

Ramsey Beckstead
Wife
2009-05-21

YOU ARE REMEMBERED TODAY AND THANK YOU SIR FOR YOUR SERVICE

Pat Van Den Berghe
Neighbors for a Better Manchester, NH
2008-02-05

So many long years we have been apart..I try to remember every moment we were together and can't always. I miss you so much. Love, Ramsey

Ramsey Beckstead
wife
2007-10-23

Rest in Peace, Officer Beckstead. Your sacrifice is not forgotten.

Officer 11169

2007-03-14

Don-

I will never forget the night you and Jim were shot. I listened to all the radio traffic from my post east of Winslow where I manned a roadblock until we were advised to stand down after Greenberg had been killed by the NMSP.

Don, Rest in Peace

Colin Peabody

Sergeant Colin Peabody, Retired
Arizona Department of Public Safety
2007-02-22

Don,

I have had the privilege of getting to know and work with your wife, Ramsey. I've read many articles about your life and your death. I had the privilege of being with Ramsey at the National Law Enforcement Memorial in Washington, DC, this past May when she first saw your name on the memorial wall. Even though it was years after your death, the pain and loss was still fresh.

I've heard your name many times as I attended memorials for my husband, Doug, who also died in the line of duty wearing the AZ DPS uniform. I look forward to the day when I meet you on the other side!

Sharon Knutson-Felix, Executive Director
100 Club of Arizona
2006-08-21

Brother Beckstead,

May the road rise up to meet you,
May the wind be always at your back,
May the sun shine warm upon your face,
And the rains fall soft upon your fields,
And until we meet again,
May God hold you in the palm of His hand.

Respectfully,
You’re Brothers in Blue

Untouchables LE Motorcycle Club

2006-01-10

We carry on in your memory. Keep your hand over us each day.

Narcotics Sergeant
AZDPS
2005-11-10

I miss you still my love, Ramsey
June 2005

Ramsey Beckstead, Don's wife
Scottsdale Police Department
2005-06-01

Officer Beckstead you will be remembered Brother.

Sr. Trooper Keith Miller (Ret)
Oregon State Police
2004-09-26

No officer that gave his life should be without reflection……

“For those who pledge to uphold it, Freedom requires a sacrifice the protected will never know”

Anonymous