Richard J. Beach

Richard J. Beach, born on June 10, 1944, to Clifford and Elizabeth (Ruppert) Beach, in Slayton, Minn., passed away peacefully at the age of 79 at home in Belle Plaine, Minn.. Rich’s life was marked by faith, dedication, love, and a passion for connecting with others. Rich passed away on Wednesday, April 10, 2024, following a year long battle with bladder cancer. 

Visitation will be held at 9:30 a.m. on Thursday, April 18, at Our Lady of the Prairie Catholic Church in Belle Plaine, followed by a Mass of Christian burial at 10:30 a.m.  Fr. Michael Kaluza will officiate. Following the Mass, lunch will be served at the church with interment to take place at St. John’s Abbey Cemetery in Collegeville, Minn. at 2:45 p.m.

Rich grew up in Slayton and graduated from Slayton High School in 1962. He continued his education at Anoka Ramsey Jr. College and DeVry Technical Institute. He was drafted into the United States Army, where he proudly served with honor. On June 8, 1968, Rich married the love of his life and soulmate, Sharon Zehnder, in Truman, Minn. Their nearly 56 years of marriage was a journey of love, faith, companionship, shared dreams, family, and unwavering support. 

Rich worked in various roles for computer corporation Sperry (Unisys) for over 20 years. Rich then took on various jobs over the years where he was able to share his vast knowledge and problem-solving skills while engaging in heartfelt conversations with people from all walks of life.  Some of his most fulfilling time was spent working for the monasteries at St. John’s and St. Benedict. Rich loved woodworking, especially working with Sharon to create beautiful pieces for their children and grandchildren. He enjoyed working outside and thrived in the garden. Camping trips and cousin camp gatherings were cherished moments that brought joy to his heart.

Rich was preceded in death by his parents; son, Jeffry; sister, Phyllis and her husband, Donald Muecke; sister, Patricia Metz; sister-in-law, Beth Zehnder; nephews, Paul and Bryan; and many cousins and friends.

Rich leaves behind a loving family. He is survived by his beloved wife, Sharon, of Belle Plaine; four children; 14 grandchildren; and two great-grandchildren including: Joan (Eric), of Maple Park, Ill. and their children, Elizabeth, Sarah, Alice, Isabel and Benjamin; Jerome (Kris) of Jordan, Minn. and their children, Zachry and Catherine; Jason (Elissa) of Chanhassen, Minn. and their children, Megan and Leah; James (Jenny), of Ft. Myers, Fla. and their children, Alexander (Oskar & Nikolai), Nathan, Abigail, Gabriella and Jessica; brother-in-law, Joseph Metz.

Rich’s memory will forever live on in the hearts of those who knew and loved him.