Family, Friends & Fellow Officers Remember...

Officer Beckstead,
On today, the 50th anniversary of your death I would just like to say thank you for your service and sacrifice for the citizens of the state of Arizona. And to your Family and loved ones, I wish to extend my deepest sympathy.

R.I.P.
USBP

Mike Casey
United States Border Patrol

February 7, 2021

Dear Don,

You would've been my grandfather if that horrible tragedy hadn't happened all those years ago. And my dad would've grown up remembering his father. But even though I didn't know you when you were alive, you've still made a big impact on my life through my dad, and my grandmother.

I had the privilege the other day to get a glimpse into your life when we listened to a cassette of you and Gramzey (my grandma) at my Uncle's House. And I learned a lot more about who you were as a person. It felt surreal to hear your voice, but I'm happy I got the chance to. And afterwards, we talked about you, and what you had been like. It was so nice to get to know you a little bit better. And just today, my car mechanic saw the sticker of your face on my car and had looked up your story, and talked to me about it. He said it was truly an American story and that you were a hero. I have to agree with him.

You would be so incredibly proud of the people that your sons have become. My dad is one of the kindest, most fearless, best people I know, and I admire him so much. I know you would too. He's also dedicated his life to helping others, just as you did. And my grandmother is the strongest, kindest person too. She did an amazing job raising them, despite everything, and I look up to her too. I'm very sad things have happened the way that they did. But I'm also happy to say it has allowed me the chance to know my grandfather, Papa Joe, who is a wonderful, loving man.

I hope you know I still think about you, and wonder what it would be like if you were still here. And that you live on in the stories others tell me about you.

Love,
Your Granddaughter, Sydney

Sydney Beckstead
Granddaughter, Family

August 20, 2020

Rest in peace Officer Beckstead.

Rabbi Lewis S. Davis

August 6, 2019

We are grateful for the service of Officer James Keeton, and recognize the great burden the family had to bear on this day so many years ago. I hope we never lose sight of the collateral damage of the death of law enforcement personnel.

Ramsey Beckstead, James Keeton is remembered today on the 47th anniversary of his death. His assailants are long forgotten, but James' memory lives on.

Stan Jefferson
Citizen of Arizona

February 7, 2018

It will be 45 years tomorrow, a long life time. Many more years than you had the chance to live, to see your sons grow up, to enjoy each one of them and to enjoy your life. I miss you.

Ramsey Beckstead
Don's wife

February 6, 2016

IN HONORE CASORUM
The promise... Always honored, never forgotten.

Sgt. T. J. Jones
Greater Cleveland Transit Police Department, Ohio

February 7, 2015

"Blessed are the peacemakers: for they shall be called the children of God."
Matthew 5:9

Marshal Chris Di Gerolamo
Federal Air Marshal Service

February 6, 2013

Your heroism and service is honored today, the 41rst anniversary of your death. Your memory lives and you continue to inspire. Thank you for your service. My cherished son Larry Lasater was a fellow police officer murdered in the line of duty on April 24, 2005 while serving as a Pittsburg, CA police officer.

Time never diminishes respect and you will always be honored and revered. I pray for solace for all those that love and remember you for I know the pain and pride are forever. Your family is in my heart's embrace today. Thanks to your family for sharingi in their reflections their devotion to you.

Rest In Peace.

Phyllis Loya
Mom of fallen California Officer Larry Lasater, Pittsburg PD, eow 4/24/05

February 7, 2012

On the day that Don Beckstead died I was walking across I-40 on my way to work near Sander Arizona- I was 14. I saw Don driving by - he had his lights on and was driving at least 130 mph. Faster than I have ever seen anyone drive. He had to be going to his fellow officers assistance. So sad.
was a day for the grim reaper as a girl died, her boyfriend boy was shot and lived, two officers died and their killer was shot just over the border in New mexico by Highway Patrolmen from that state.

Mike Little, AG1 USNR
witness of Don as he drove by on the way to his death

October 8, 2011

A tragic day for this force. Rest assured your lost ones are remembered.

Constable Amanda Pandolfi
York Regional Police, Ontario Canada

February 7, 2011

39 years ago--it is a sad day, it was a horrible day.

Ramsey
Wife

February 7, 2010

I remember nights we would sit up and talk until day break. I'd like to talk to you now and tell you about our family. How wonderful each person is--how special each person is; I would guess you know already. You would be so very proud of David and Scott. Proud of what they have accomplished in their lives, their families, the sons, husbands and fathers they are, how professional and caring they are in their careers. Somehow, even though they were so terribly young when you died, they have followed your example of how you lived your life. You were and are my strength. I miss you.

Ramsey
Wife

December 2, 2009

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

October 29, 2009

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.

September 12, 2009

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

September 12, 2009

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

August 9, 2009

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

May 21, 2009

YOU ARE REMEMBERED TODAY AND THANK YOU SIR FOR YOUR SERVICE

Pat Van Den Berghe
Neighbors for a Better Manchester, NH

February 5, 2008

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

October 23, 2007

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

Officer 11169

March 14, 2007

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

February 22, 2007

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

August 21, 2006

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

January 10, 2006

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

Narcotics Sergeant
AZDPS

November 10, 2005

I miss you still my love, Ramsey
June 2005

Ramsey Beckstead, Don's wife
Scottsdale Police Department

June 1, 2005