Martin M. Beckner

Martin McHale Beckner (Mack), 81, of Charlotte, NC, peacefully transitioned on January 19, 2012, surrounded by his family, after a sixteen year journey with PLS. He was born in York, PA, the son of Colonel William and Ieleen (McHale) Beckner. He graduated from Gettysburg College where he met the love of his life, Mary Ann Book. They were united in marriage on November 6, 1954. After living in York, PA and Largo, FL they settled in Stroudsburg, PA in 1967. Martin worked as the Business Manager for the East Stroudsburg Area School District for 22 years before his retirement in 1993. They then relocated to Wilmington, NC, before recently making Charlotte their home. Mack was an avid Philadelphia sports fan and during his retirement years, was known for being the Editor of the Beckner Beacon Family Newsletter.

Martin is survived by his loving wife of 57 years, Mary Ann Beckner of Charlotte; four children, Bruce (Sheila) Beckner of Red Wing, MN, Wesley (Kathy) Beckner of Charlotte, Nancy (John) Bastian of Philadelphia, PA, Beth (Jim) Ourand of Reisterstown, MD; ten wonderful grandchildren, Meyer and Asa Beckner, Lindsey, Eric and Ryan Beckner, Lizzie, Audrey and Clifford Bastian, McHale and Colby Ourand; and sister, Ann Idzik of East Palo Alto, CA.

He was preceded in death by his parents; one brother; and two sisters. A private family service will be held on Sunday, January 22, 2012, at McEwen Funeral Service – Pineville Chapel. A celebration of his life will be held in Stroudsburg, PA, in the spring. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be directed to the ALS Association: Jim “Catfish” Hunter Chapter, 120-101 Penmarc Drive, Raleigh, NC, 27603.