Raymond Frank Beeson

Raymond was born in Kokomo, Indiana on November 11,1938 to John and Rosalee Beeson. He was the oldest of his four surviving siblings: brothers Gary & Vincent Beeson and sisters Cean Little and Dawn Ramilia. He is survived by his wife Erna Ursula Beeson and their three sons Michael, Dennis, and Patrick Beeson. He has five grandchildren: Alison, Samantha, Cameron, Christopher, Rachel and 8 great grandchildren, who he all referred to as "George" for easy remembering. None were actually named George.

After graduating from high school, Raymond immediately joined the Air Force on July 27,1956 and served for 20 years. His military service took him to Germany, where he met the love of his life, Michigan, back to Germany, and finally George Air Force Base in California. The family liked California so much that he did his tour in the Philippines alone so his family would not have to relocate again. Once he retired from the military they purchased their forever home in Apple Valley.

During his time in Germany, Raymond was a volunteer Game Warden and he acquired his German hunting license, becoming a true "Jagermeister," having many trophies to show for it.

Following his military service, Raymond worked briefly for Midway Appliances before he began working for Goldstone in the Deep Space Program and eventually with the Jet Propulsion Lab as a test engineer for 10 years. This field was the reason he watched the Big Bang Theory every night, as it reminded him fondly of his past job.

Raymond had a deep love for guns. He was the Range Master for the Apple Valley Gun Club and was a member for 50 years. He was also a DOJ Certified Firearm Safety Instructor where he enjoyed helping others learn about the safety and use of firearms. Raymond felt his retirement would be more enjoyable with something to do and decided to open his own business. This passion created Victor Valley Shooters, where Raymond served as both owner and gun dealer from 1999-2009. Many customers and friends would gather at the shop as it was an inviting place to meet and talk about all the things Raymond enjoyed.

He was one of the founding members of the Double R Bar Association and he supported the Happy Trails Foundation.

Raymond will be remembered by those who loved him for his military service, his love of guns, his jeep infatuation, his favorite cowboy hats, how he always overfilled the bird feeder so the birds wouldn't be hungry, sharing his last bite with the dogs, shaking the kitty food to call his cat home. his dry humor, the forgotten cigarette in the corner of his mouth, and a million other little things. He went by many names: Ray, Dad, Papa Smurf, and Opa. His life was well-lived and his legacy will continue to live on forever in the hearts and stories of all those who loved him.