1944-2025
Arthur “Butch” Leon Beckett, 81 passed away on March 25, 2025 at his home in Cottonwood, California. Butch was born at Potter’s Maternity Home in Susanville, California on January 27, 1944.
Butch was preceded in death by his parents James (Jim) and Florence Beckett, sister Mary Nicholas, brothers J.R., Neal, Cecil and Emmet.
He is survived by his wife of 60 years Carole, daughter Tammy (Rick) Isringhausen, son Daren (Lysandra) Beckett, grandchildren Britney (Andrew) Peterson, Lane (Jolene) Isringhausen, Hailey (Zach) Showalter, Jimmy (Jenny) Lilburn, Tristan (Paige) Beckett, John Lilburn, Shannon Lilburn and seven great grandchildren.
Butch always had an adventurous spirit from an early age. He enjoyed working on the ranch with his dad. Competing as a bull rider and later racing cars (dirt track, drag racing, modifieds and sportsman classes). But most of all he had a love and passion for all things outdoors, hunting, fishing, trapping and following in the footsteps of his dad and brothers working in the woods. Butch was a timber faller for 35 years, learning his craft from experienced fallers before him and later mentoring young men who would carry on the tradition. He loved his work and the people and friends he made along the way.
In 1979 Butch, Carole and their family moved to Big Valley and found their community. It was here he lived the life he loved, spending his days in the woods and exploring places he would find while working with Carole on the weekends. They would spend their weekends at small creeks, lakes or just driving back roads. He was always involved and supported his kids and many others through FFA, local logging shows or cheering at the Friday night high school football games. Over the years he made many close friendships that he would reminisce about often. Even after moving to Cottonwood 20 years ago, he still missed the small community and the friendships he cherished. Big Valley always remained his home.
A celebration of life will be held Saturday, May 10, 2025 at 2:00 at Grace Bible Church, New Cemetery Road in Nubieber, California.
