Julia Dianne Beekman
February 14, 2018
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Service Details
Julia Dianne Beekman
Of Des Moines
Julia Dianne Beekman, age 59, died the evening of February 14, 2018 at her home after a day spent with her children and granddaughter.
Julia was born in Des Moines on January 26, 1959 to Bill and Nancy (Meline) Beekman. Julia’s time growing up was spent in both the Des Moines area and Northern Arkansas. At Rogers High School in Arkansas, Julia enjoyed art, theater and literature, and went on to attend the University of Arkansas where she studied journalism. During this time she also spent several months teaching English in Guatemala.
In 1982 Julia married Jim Baehr in Des Moines. They were married for 16 years and had two children. While raising her family Julia worked as a pre-school teacher and freelance artist. More importantly, she captured her children’s imaginations by reading them classic books, taking them on bike rides in Waterworks Park, and telling goofy stories with shadow puppets in the evenings.
In 1995 Julia became the first female officer in the Clive Police Department, pursuing an ambition that had been with her since her college journalism days. “I just want to help,” is how she often explained it. During her 19-year career Julia especially enjoyed bike patrol on Greenbelt trails and serving a term as detective. She was also a voracious enthusiast for audiobooks in her squad car, exhausting the collections of several Des Moines libraries.
In 2015, a year after retirement, Julia was diagnosed with Stage 4 pancreatic cancer. Although the disease can often progress rapidly, Julia patiently and cheerfully underwent treatment for two and a half years, in which time she attended both her son’s wedding and the birth of her first grandchild. Julia’s strength drew upon her faith in God and her quiet yet passionate love for her family.
In death Julia joins her mother Nancy, her grandparents, Bob & Lola Meline and her Aunt Ruth (John) Gaskell. She is survived by her father, Bill, siblings Jeff (Bev) Beekman, Cindy (Mark) Irwin, Chris (Debbie) Beekman, children Luke (Joelle) Baehr, Hilary (Colyn) Burbank and her granddaughter, Nell. Near to her also were her Meline uncles Chuck (Judy), Aaron (Jane), and Tim (Chriss) Meline, cousins, as well lifelong friend Diana Calhoun and the Bizimana family.
A memorial service for Julia is planned for Friday, March 2 at 5 pm at the Ding Darling Shelter in Birdland Park: 2100 Saylor Rd. Des Moines, 50313.
Sarah Honey
06/26/2019
I am so sorry. Julie was the best friend and most amazing woman. She and her family treated me like family. I will miss her.
Susan Judkins
02/25/2018
As Clive's first female officer, Julia was an inspiration to so many in Clive and beyond. Her strength and tenacity were demonstrated in handling her illness with grace. My condolences to all family, friends and former colleagues.
Denise Douglas
02/23/2018
My condolences to the family at this time of your loss. Losing someone you love is never easy. May you find comfort in knowing that now Ms. Beekman is asleep with the hope of awakening to life when all causes of suffering, pain, and even death are things of the past. God has promised us this at Revelation 21:4. We can also look to Acts 24:15 which says we wil see those again, we have lost ind death. What wonderful promises from God for the future. May these promises along with your memories bring you comfort and peace.
Mary Gutierrez
02/22/2018
My condolences to the family. May you find comfort in GOD's word. Isaiah 26:19; Psalms 37:11,29.
Matt McQuillen, City of Clive
02/20/2018
The City of Clive's thoughts and prayers are with Julia and her family. Julia was very dedicated in her service to the Clive community and this is definitely a sad day for the Clive family.
Rick Roe, Clive Fire Department
02/20/2018
My thoughts and prayers are with Julia's family. She was always a wonderful person to be around, friendly and smiling. Julia and I worked many years together for the City of Clive.
Dave Pontious
02/18/2018
Luke & Hillary so sorry for your loose, my condolences to you n the family. Your mother was a great lady, remembering when we spent time at the lake an how much I enjoyed our talks. God Bless you all an watch over you.
Terry Brauch, Ret. Clive PD
02/18/2018
My deepest condolences to the family in the loss of your beloved Julia. She was always happy with a big smile on her face at the department. And she had big shoes to fill as the first female on the department which she filled very well. I pray that God will give you all the comfort you need in this time of sorrow. Also that the great memories you have will get you through this difficult time.
Mark Rehberg
02/18/2018
We were all saddened at the Clive PD to hear of Julia's passing. She was passionate and dedicated to her profession and we are all better for having known her. Our condolences to her family, you are all in our thoughts at this difficult time.
Holly Hyde
02/17/2018
I'm so sorry to hear of Julia's passing. I dispatched for her for many years and I was fortunate to have known her a few years before that. She was always so friendly and always smiling! She was definitely one of a kind. I'm so sorry for her family who she loved so much. My thoughts are with you all and of course with Julia.