{Mr. Beckstrand...Teacher, Friend, Example}

Last night we traveled to Beaver, as a family to celebrate a special occasion. After 32 years of teaching my dad, Mr. Beckstrand, retired! I can't even begin to imagine the number of lives he touched over those years, and he remembers each student, by name, and can tell you stories about most of them. He began his teaching career in Heber City, teaching fourth grade. From there he moved to Fillmore, where he has taught everything from fourth grade, to pre-algebra, to computers, he spent over 15 years in the library and then taught the last two in 6th grade. When we lived in Santaquin, I was talking to my friend Stefany one day who mentioned that she grew up in Heber. I told her we had lived there when I was young and my dad taught Elementary there. I had to laugh when she said, I don't remember a Mr. Dearden. When I told her my dad was actually Mr. Beckstrand, she couldn't believe it, my dad was her 4th grade teacher. I called my dad to tell him and he proceeded to tell me a story about her...more then 25 years later.

I was lucky enough to have my dad as my 8th grade pre-algebra teacher and also for computers. It wasn't always easy having my dad for a teacher, but I and thankful for that experience, I learned so much from him. This is a little excerpt from a letter I wrote him. "As it came time for me to have you as a teacher, I mistakenly figured that since you knew I was horrible at Math, you would most likely give me a break? I couldn't’t have been more wrong. You pushed me, and giving up or slaking wasn’t an option. I remember getting a 90% on a test and thinking, “Hey it’s an A, sweet!” When the time came for a retake, I didn’t even consider taking it again, why would I? I had an A. You asked everyone who wanted to take the test again to raise their hands and you would pass back test for them. When the tests got to the end of my row, there was an extra. I still remember your answer when the student at the back said our row had an extra test, “That one is Monica’s.” I could tell by your look that I wouldn’t be arguing and I would be taking the retake. It may have taken a few more years for that lesson to sink in, but I knew you expected me to do my best and keep working until I did."
Can I just tell you how nice it was to enjoy a dinner, without the kids crying and whining. I have to shout out a big thanks to my Skyler and her friend Tori, they watched all eight of the grand kids for four hours! And If you ever get a chance to stop at the Timberline in Beaver, do it! Everything was spectacular. The owners are family friends, and Kris even left a sweet gift and card on the table for my dad since she knew we were coming!

Derrick & I
Jeremy & Lisa
My brother Shad and his wife Julia

My brother Kyle and his wife Katy

Robert & Carlene

(aka~Mom & Dad)

My sweet Grandparents, Harold & NaDean

We wanted to do something special to celebrate this occasion, and to let my dad know just how much he influenced so many lives. We contacted some of his past students and asked them to write their memories of Mr. Beckstrand, or Mr. B as many called him. As each letter or email came in I repeatedly found myself in tears, everyone had such nice things to say and such great memories. I was so touched to watch my dad flip through this book of memories. As he opened it and saw a letter from one of the students from his class this year he teared up, as he flipped through each page and saw the names of those that contributed he cried a bit more. I know there are so many that we missed, if you are one of them and would like to add something, you are more than welcome to send it to me and I'll make sure it gets added.

My brother Shad put it so well, when he said, "You have benefited many lives through your chosen career. If I could be as well respected as you, I would consider myself very fortunate and successful."

I spent some time looking through the stacks of his school pictures yesterday, and I had to share some. I also couldn't help but add some of the thoughts past students expressed, I hope none of them mind.

"I just have to say I know that I was so lucky to have you as a teacher and I am so lucky to have you as an amazing Uncle who I love so MUCH!"~ Jaime Rose Beckstrand

"I have always appreciated those that have helped me along my journey in life, and I would have to say that Mr. B would be one of the people on the top of my list of being the most influential to me. Thank you for a job well done, you have touched many lives during your career as an educator. Thank you for touching mine. You made me want to be a better person."~ Dr. Darrin Cummings

"So to you Mr. Beckstrand... Thank You for lending a helping hand to critique the misspelled words and encourage the imagination. Although we didn't work closely everyday, it really is the little things that make a difference."~ Kerra Waters Ryan

“I may not remember what you taught me, but I will remember how you treated me.” He treated all of his students with respect. He was so patient and kind."~ Shiela Lund Sheriff

"I just wanted to let you know that I think you are an awesome educator. I know you have done so much for all the students who have been in your classes. One thing I have always noticed about you is that you never lose your temper. You are always so calm and reasonable even when students stand on their desks!" (there is a great story that goes along with this, I may just have to share it sometime)~ Wendy Olsen Ashman

"It has been many years since I was a student at Fillmore Middle School, but every time I see Mr. Beckstrand I go back in my mind to grade school, and to my friend, and the positive impact that he had on me in my life. My school experience, nor my life would be the same without Mr. Beckstrand." ~ James Monroe

"I, too, chose education as a career, partly because of his influence I'm sure. In my years as an educator I have taught with, evaluated and interviewed hundreds of teachers. Without question, Mr Beckstrand is one of the best. People are given certain talents in life for a reason. God has a plan for all of us. I am so glad that Mr. Beckstrand realized what his talent and plan was. His influence for good on the young people of Wasatch and Millard counties could never be measured. It is infinite in nature and will continue on long after he retires and even after he leaves this earth."~ Paul Sweat

"I can honestly say that I always have been, and still am to this day, proud to be Mr. Beckstrand's girl! I feel lucky to not only have had you as a teacher in the classroom, but throughout my life. You are a great example to not only me, but also my children and my husband. Congratulations!"~Monica Beckstrand Dearden

"To Teach is to Touch a Life Forever!"