Richard A. Beach

Rick, 57, of Fargo died Friday, July 6, 2012 at Villa Maria, Fargo, ND. Rick was born July 14, 1954 to Robert and Darlene (Hendricksen) Beach, in Fergus Falls, MN. His early years were spent on the family farm near Ashby, MN.

He moved to Fargo with his parents and brother graduating from Fargo South High School in 1972. He graduated from North Dakota Sate School of Science, Wahpeton, with an Associates Degree in Business Administration and went to work for Northwestern Bell/Qwest retiring after 30 years of service.

Rick enjoyed music, scenery, animals, “nature”, photography, was an artist and had a great sense of humor. Rick was a traveler from the very beginning. Rick was a good driver and tremendously enjoyed taking trips, many by himself. He went into Canada, out west to California, and to the Grand Canyon. One time he told his parents he was going to the Black Hills but ended up calling from Jackson Hole, WY. He had put up a pup tent which ended up next to a snow bank the next morning.

Another time (1980) Rick took his 1976 Dodge Coupe V8 out to WA after Mt. St. Helens blew its top. He had to get numerous oil changes to get the ash out of the engine. In June of 1968 he married Lea Thompson. He took her to see Mt. St. Helens, forgot to change the oil as often, and burnt out his engine on that same car. Amongst other vehicles, Rick had a 1981 Honda Civic, “Henry”, which he enjoyed very much. Rick and “Henry” saw a lot of country together.

They moved to Omaha, NE living there for over 20 years. Rick returned to Fargo in 2004, being independent for 5 years at Dakota Park apartments. Cerebral palsy continued to take a toll on his body weakening his left arm. He then moved into Bethany on 42nd. On June 25, Rick suffered a massive stroke. He could not swallow and only communicated with his eyes. Jesus came to take him home on July 6. We, “I Can Only Imagine”, how Rick and his mother are dancing in heaven. He will be dearly missed here on earth.

He is survived by his father, Robert “Bob” Beach, Fargo, ND and brother, Lonny Beach, Fargo, ND.

He was preceded in death by his mother, Darlene, infant sister, Bonnie Lynn.

Funeral: Wednesday, July 11,2012, 10:00 AM at Bethlehem Lutheran Church, Fargo, ND.

Visitation: One hour prior to services at the church.

Burial: Hamar Cemetary, Rothsay, MN