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ESCANABA - William "Bill" S. Beckstrom, 91, Escanaba, passed away Friday, Oct. 30, 2009, at St. Francis Hospital with his son and daughter at his side. Bill was born on Jan. 27, 1918, to the late Edward and Emmy (Olsen) Beckstrom in Ironwood. On Oct. 5, 1946, he married the former Elizabeth "Betty" Kraus at St. Joseph's Church and she preceded him in death in 2007.

Bill graduated from Escanaba High School in 1935 and later served his country in the U.S. Air Force as an air traffic controller in Saipan. After serving his country, he married and lived in Minneapolis, Minn., for about three years. When they returned to Escanaba, Bill began his career in the U.S. Postal Service where he retired from in 1979. He was a member of St. Joseph & St. Patrick's Parish, Holy Name Society, National Association of Federal Employees and the Highland Golf Course. Bill enjoyed bowling, golfing, traveling, flower gardening and was an avid reader. He also was an accomplished skier and enjoyed sailing as a young adult and always enjoyed being on the water.

He is survived by two children, Jane Beckstrom of Boston, Mass., and James Beckstrom of Kansas City, Mo.,: three grandsons, Heath (Kylie), Tyler and Lukas Beckstrom, as well as numerous nieces and nephews.

Bill was preceded in death by his parents; his wife; a son, Thomas Beckstrom; and six brothers and sisters.

Friends may call from 4 to 6 p.m. today, Nov. 2, at Allo Funeral Home in Escanaba with parish prayers at 5:30. A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated at 11 a.m. on Tuesday, Nov. 3, at St. Joseph & St. Patrick's Parish with Fr. Eric Olson officiating and Fr. Emmett Norden concelebrating.

A luncheon will follow Mass in the church fellowship hall and burial will take place in the Holy Cross Cemetery. Please visit www.allofh.com to send online condolences to the Beckstrom family.

In lieu of other expressions of sympathy, donations may be made to the Alzheimer's Association and envelopes will be provided at Allo Funeral Home.