Richard Beckenbach

Beckenbach was a member of Southern New York Racing Association. He raced at the Danbury Racearena from 1959-1969, over the 10 years he drove cars # 31 & #41.

Richard, one of LIUNA’s early settlers in the New England region, 50 years service as the Business Agent of Laborers’ Union Local 675. It was his drive, determination and dedication that he never lost over the years that empowered through any battle. It was his success and accomplishments that helped bridge the practices of the past with vision for the future. In 1965 Richard successfully led Local 675 on a 72 day strike. Soon after, he was elected the post of Business Agent. Through his untiring efforts the first ever pay increase was won for the Building Construction Industry. After a long, devoted and very successful journey with Laborers’ Union, Richard recently retired in November 2014, at the age 81.

Richard was the number one Patriot Fan! He loved his family but adored his dogs. He spent as much time outside as he could, fishing, hunting, gardening and maintaining his “Ranch”. He enjoyed watching NASCAR Racing on Sunday afternoons.

Richard was lifelong Danbury resident, married 53 years to the former Bette Jean Sweeney, who predeceased him in 2009. They had two sons Henry who predeceased him 2012 and Joseph who predeceased him 1988. He is survived by three grandchildren, Amanda Beckenbach, Heather Mendes (Helder) and Anthony Beckenbach, four great grandchildren; Faith and Sophia Beckenbach, Jaiden Mendes and Ryan Beckenbach, his daughter-in-law Denise Beckenbach, God daughter Toni Arditi and his sister Dolores Jenkins.

A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated at St. Joseph Church, Danbury, on Friday morning at 10:00 a.m. Interment will follow at St. Peter Cemetery. Friends may call at the Green Funeral Home, 57 Main St., Danbury, on Thursday from 4:00 to 8:00 p.m.