Ray L. Beckstrand Obituary (1933 - 2011)

Following a massive stroke, Ray L. Beckstrand passed away peacefully, July 17, 2011 surrounded by his loving family, and into the arms of his Heavenly Father. Ray was born in Meadow, Utah March 22nd, 1933 to Orvil E. and Grace Stewart Beckstrand. Grace passed away shortly after his birth and he was fortunate enough to be raised by a wonderful woman when Orvil married Dorothy Magney. Ray served an honorable mission for the LDS church in Southern California; upon returning he married Afton Whitaker in the Manti Temple on December 17, 1955. They raised a family and celebrated 56 years together. Ray was a dedicated and loving husband, father, grandfather, and great-grandfather who took great pride in his family. He was educated at BYU and spent several years in retail before pursuing a career in cosmetology. Ray was an award-winning hairdresser and served in many leadership positions in the California, Utah, and National Cosmetology Associations. Ray and Afton spent the early years of their marriage raising their family in the San Diego area where he had served his mission. There they made many wonderful memories before moving back to Utah. Ray is survived by his sweetheart Afton, his two children Randy (Denise), Raelyn (Gerry), five grandchildren: Matt (Melissa), Staci (Benson), Kimi, Cameron (Emily), Nathan, and 8 (soon to be nine) great grandchildren. Ray is also survived by his brother DeLyle; and beloved niece and nephews. Funeral Services will be held Thursday, July 21, 2011 at 11:00 AM at the River Ridge 8th ward located at 10194 S. 1000 W., South Jordan. A viewing will be held at Jenkins-Soffe South Valley located at 1007 W. South Jordan Pkwy (10600 S) on Wednesday evening from 6-8:00 PM and on Thursday morning from 9:30-10:45 AM prior to the services at the church. Interment will be at Wasatch Lawn Memorial Park at 13001 S. 3600 W., Riverton.