Kent M. Beckman

Kent Michael Beckman, 55, of Detroit Lakes, passed away peacefully on August 16, 2024, after a long and courageous battle with lung disease. Surrounded by his beloved friends and family, Kent slipped into Heaven.

Born on June 10, 1969, in Golden Valley, Minnesota, Kent was the cherished son of Norman and Cheryl Beckman. At the age of five, he moved to Roundup, Montana, and moved to Detroit Lakes in 1980. Kent graduated from Christian Fellowship School in 1988 and pursued further education, completing college programs in both architectural and mechanical drafting.

Kent's work ethic began early, with his first job at just 12 years old at Engstrom’s Dairy Farm. During high school, he worked at County Market, where he was known for making doughnuts, and he also worked at Burger Time. He even helped build a log home in Idaho.

His career took him to Offutt’s Farm in Perham, MN. Following Offutt’s, he drove semi for Wylie Trucking and Midnight Express, and eventually, he found his passion as a Machinist Lead. He worked for Team Industries in Park Rapids and later for BTD Manufacturing in Detroit Lakes, where he remained until his illness forced him to retire.

A true "shade tree mechanic," Kent had a remarkable talent for fixing anything that came his way, from snowmobiles to motorcycles, cars, and trucks. His friends and family relied on his expertise whenever something needed repair. Kent’s dedication to his loved ones was unwavering, and his vibrant sense of humor brightened even his toughest days. In his final days, he found joy in working on puzzles with his mom and trying to outwit her in cribbage.

Kent was preceded in death by his grandparents, Vic and Wanda Huju, and Lawrence and Gerry Beckman. He leaves behind a legacy of love and laughter, deeply missed by his parents, Norman and Cherie Beckman of Detroit Lakes, his brother Brad Beckman of Detroit Lakes, and sister, Judy Beckman of Grand Forks, ND ;one nephew, Alex Beckman; as well as Uncle Mike and Aunt Sue; cousins, Jon and Tammy, Shawn and Rick, Kim and Greg, Jenny and Jeremy; and special friends, Derek and Bonnie Oldenburger.

Our heartfelt gratitude to Hospice of the Red River Valley and Essentia Health – St. Mary’s of Detroit Lakes for your continued care and grace throughout Kent’s illness. 

A Celebration of Kent’s Life will be held Friday, August 23, 2024, at 2pm in Community Alliance Church in Detroit Lakes. A gathering of family and friends will be one hour prior to the service.