Michael's obituary
Beaz was born on September 29, 1956 in Mattoon, IL. He enlisted in the United States Marine Corps in 1975 where he was stationed in San Diego, California. He was in the Second Battalion Platoon 2104. He was recognized as the Fastest Marine for assault rifle disassembly and reassembly in his platoon. US Marines are tested on their marksmanship and can earn one of three levels of expertise: Marksmen, Sharpshooter or Expert. Beaz was awarded the USMC US Marine Corps Rifle Qualification “Expert” Shooting Badge Pin. He took pride in being a Marine and said the military helped shape him into the person he later became in life. He also supported numerous veterans groups and causes throughout his life. Following in his father’s footsteps, Beaz was employed at Columbia Machine for many years. He was a Service Representative in the Materials Handling Division where he traveled all over the United States. He spoke highly of Grant Farrens, quoting “He was the world’s best boss.” He treasured Grant’s friendship wholeheartedly.
Beaz was a diehard Indianapolis 500 fan and hardly missed a race in nearly 30 years. He loved the Chicago Bears and was a St. Louis Cardinals fan. He had a passion for Harley Davidson Motorcycles, collecting old rare coins and knives. Beaz had a huge network of friends. He had Harley riding buddies, Partying pals, Indy racing comrades and so many more good friends that we couldn’t possibly list them all. Just know he cherished you all.
Beaz leaves behind his brother; Brad (Eleonor) Beasley of Mattoon, IL and his sisters; Vicki (David) Cline of Cooks Mills, IL, Pennie Schnell of Mattoon, IL and Nancy Cox Christensen of Manassas, Virginia. He also leaves behind many nieces and nephews that will deeply miss their “Uncle Mike”. He was preceded in death by his parents, Charles “Buzz” and Jewell Beasley.
A memorial service with Full Military Honors will be held on July 6, 2021 at 10 am at Rest Haven Memorial Gardens, 1701 Dewitt Ave. East, Mattoon, IL 61938. We welcome any and all family and friends to join us in celebrating Mike’s life that day.
The family would like to thank William Childs Hospice House, Palm Bay Hospital and all his caregivers.
A Special thanks to William “Billy” and Tina Tiller, Richard and Robert Anderson and Cindy Amara. Thank you for all your love and kindness, support and friendship all these years towards Mike.
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