April 16, 1926 ~ Dec. 5, 2020
After a long life of service to his family, church, friends, and community, Harold Lovell Beckstrand, 94, passed away on Saturday, December 5, surrounded by family.
Harold was born on April 16, 1926 in Oak City, Utah to J. Milton and Eva Lovell Beckstrand. He grew up in Meadow along with his four brothers where they worked on the family farm. He graduated from Millard High School and then served a mission for The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints in South Africa. Before leaving on his mission, Harold was set up on a blind date with his future bride, NaDean Oldroyd. They corresponded throughout his mission and he brought home a diamond wrapped in a handkerchief. Harold married NaDean on June 30, 1950. Together, they made their home in Meadow and were blessed with eight children.
Harold worked as a bus driver and an equipment operator for Carling Equipment, but his love was working on the farm. He always said the purpose of the farm was to help raise his family; to teach his children how to work. He served his community in various capacities which included being a Millard School Board member for twelve years. He served in many church callings including Gospel Doctrine Teacher, Bishop, and Patriarch. He also served a mission with NaDean at Cove Fort Historical Site. They attended the temple weekly for many years and enjoyed many Church historical sites and temple tours.
He is survived by his wife NaDean; brothers Mervin (Carolyn) and Linford (Mary Louise); children Kerry DeVries (son-in-law), Robert (Carlene), Hal (Jolynn), Richard (Sheri Kay), Don (Paige), Jay (Kim divorced, Kelli divorced); 22 grandchildren, and 44 great-grandchildren. He is preceded in death by his parents; two brothers Joe (Jean) and Gordon (Norma); daughter Marilyn DeVries and twin baby daughters Dean and Diane; Marlene (daughter-in-law).
The family wishes to express thanks to the many health care professionals who have provided their love and service. Harold will be greatly missed by all who knew him. Due to the pandemic guidelines, the family will hold a private viewing and funeral service on Saturday, December 12 at 12:00. The interment will be at the Meadow Cemetery under the direction and care of Olpin Stevens Funeral Home. Online condolences can be expressed at www.olpinstevensfuneralhome.com. The stream of the funeral can be found at https://youtu.be/Yzkq1F0cTXU.
